Meningitis vaccine required for 7th graders this fall

Under a new requirement by the state of Nevada, the meningococcal vaccine (MCV4) will be required for all Nevada seventh graders or new students entering school in grades 7-12. The requirement takes effect beginning July 1, in time for the 2017-18 school year.

To help students and parents prepare for the new requirements, the Carson City Health and Human Services will be available every Thursday from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-4:30 p.m., no appointment needed, walk in welcome. They’re located at 900 E. Long St., in Carson City. You may contact them at 775-887-2190.

Additionally, the Carson City School Based Health Center will be available for immunizations every Tuesday and Thursday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 618 W. Musser St. (Behind Gleason School) in Carson City. You may contact them at 800-787-2568. For established patients, walk ins are welcome. New patients should make a new patient appointment.

The MCV4 vaccine prevents infection of the four types of bacteria, which cause the disease: A, C, W and Y. Symptoms of meningitis include headaches, stiff neck, light sensitivity, seizures, a rash, nausea and vomiting. Meningitis is contagious and can strike without warning, even among healthy people.

“Nevada is one of about 40 states requiring it,” said Sheila Story, chief nurse for Carson City School District. “Meningitis is more common in adolescents and young adults, so they should get vaccinated before they get into that age range.”

Story said the first dose of the meningitis vaccine is available for all children after the age of 10 with a follow-up booster dose 5 years later.

Additionally, all students age 23 and younger enrolled as a freshman at Nevada universities will need to provide proof they received the meningitis vaccine on or after their 16th birthday, according to Immunize Nevada.