Ringgold County Public Health reminds parents that a new immunization requirement will be in effect beginning in August 2017 for all students enrolling in 7th and 12th grades. The change requires meningococcal vaccine (commonly called Menactra), which is a two-dose series. It can be received anytime on or after 11 years of age for the first dose and after age 16 for the second.
“Summer is a great time to check with your healthcare provider to make sure your teenager’s vaccinations are up-to-date,” recommends Becky Fletchall, RN, BSN, Ringgold County Public Health. “Vaccinations not only protect your child, but also their friends and those around them.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 10 to 15 percent of people with meningococcal disease die, even with appropriate treatment. Of those who recover, up to 20 percent have serious after-effects like permanent hearing loss, limb loss, or brain damage.
For more information on the new meningitis vaccine requirement and for other school vaccine information, visit http://www.idph.iowa.gov/immtb/immunization/laws. Ringgold County Public Health holds a monthly vaccination clinic the second Thursday of every month with the next clinic scheduled July 13. Feel free to call 641-464-0691 with any questions or check with your primary care provider.