National Meningitis Association Supports the Collaborative Public Health Effort at Princeton University in Response to Outbreak

ATLANTA, Nov. 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Princeton University announced plans for the use of Bexsero® meningococcal B vaccine in response to the meningococcal disease outbreak at the University. The National Meningitis Association (NMA) supports this collaborative public health effort that will help protect those at Princeton during this time of high-risk for the infection.

Quick Facts about Meningococcal Disease and Vaccination

• Meningococcal disease, which is sometimes called bacterial meningitis, can come on quickly and can lead to death or disability within hours.
• Meningococcal disease affects persons of all ages in the US, though adolescents and young adults are at increased risk. Serogroup B, which is responsible for the Princeton outbreak, accounts for one-third of U.S. cases
  • B-strain meningococcal disease is not less common than infections caused by other strains in the U.S.
• Meningococcal vaccines currently approved and available in the US are recommended for routine vaccination of kids at age 11-12 and again at 16.
  • These vaccines protect against four strains of the disease: A, C, Y and W-135.
  • They do not prevent B-strain meningococcal disease.
• Although not yet licensed in the US, Bexsero® is licensed in the EU and Australia.
• Symptoms of meningococcal disease include flu-like symptoms of fever, achiness, and headache. Particularly worrisome symptoms and signs of the infection include rash, pain when looking at bright lights, and stiff neck.
  • While vaccines offer the best chance of protection against the infection, knowledge of symptoms can help ensure prompt medical treatment is sought if needed.
  • Please visit our website for more information on symptoms.

NMA looks forward to the day when vaccines are available and used to provide the broadest protection possible against all strains of the disease.

About NMA
NMA works to protect families from the potentially devastating effects of meningococcal disease by educating the public, medical professionals and others about the disease and its prevention. The NMA network also provides critical emotional support for families who have been affected by meningococcal disease.

Visit NMA at nmaus.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter.

SOURCE National Meningitis Association