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February 12, 2003

U.S. IMMUNIZATION NEWS

"Rare But Deadly Ailment Catches College Freshmen Unprepared" New York Times (www.nytimes.com) (02/11/03) P. F5; Tarkan, Laurie

A new law in Pennsylvania requires college students to be vaccinated against meningococcal disease, or to sign a waiver opting out.  Thirteen other states have passed meningitis vaccination bills regarding college students, and at least seven more are expected to introduce similar measures this year.  Those who advocate mandatory vaccinations for the disease say it is necessary because of the deadly nature of meningitis. But opponents argue that imposing mandatory vaccinations on entire student bodies would be burdensome, especially since meningococcal vaccines do not provide complete protection against infection.  Furthermore, they note, the

disease is rare, striking only 3,000 people a year.   The Centers for

Disease Control and Prevention, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American College Health Association recommend that both students entering college and their parents be made aware of the symptoms of meningococcemia as well as the availability of the Menomune meningococcal vaccine.

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