Youth Clinic Policy on Meningitis Vaccine

Thursday, July 01, 2010

The Youth Clinic attempts to follow the national guidelines for immunizations. Several national organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the ACIP and the CDC collaborate to establish recommendations for immunizations.

With the most recent outbreak of meningitis in Fort Collins, many calls have been received regarding the meningitis vaccine (Menactra). Menactra is recommended to be routinely given to all of our patients between the ages of 11 and 18 and strongly encouraged for all college freshman who will be living in a dorm and children over 11 who are attending a camp and living in a dorm (if they have not previously received the vaccine).

Travelers to areas of the world where the disease is endemic (see CDC.gov/travel for recommendations) and all military recruits also need to be immunized.

Menactra is approved for individuals over the age of 2 years and can be given “on demand” to anyone after age 2. However, insurance may not cover the cost of the vaccine unless it is given in the 11 and older age group. The Youth Clinic will process the charge through your insurance company and you will receive a bill for any non-covered portion of the administration or vaccine.


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