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Meningitis clinics

Meningitis can kill a young healthy person in 48 hours. The disease strikes about 3,000 Americans each year and claims about 300 lives.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord and hides behind flu-like symptoms such as headache, body aches, etc. Although the disease is rare, it IS devastating. Victims of meningitis who don't die are often left with severe complications such as amputations or brain damage.

New wellness initiative

The Aurora VNA will fight against meningococcal disease using a new vaccine called Menactra. In February, 2005, the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended Menactra for adolescents 11-years and older, college freshmen living in dormitories, and adults up to age 55. Reaching college freshman is especially important because they have the country's highest rate of the disease.

This new vaccine lasts up to 8 years and prevents people from being carriers of the disease unlike earlier vaccines that lasted 3-5 years and did not prevent people from being carriers.

It is estimated that 5-7% of the population carry the meningitis bacteria. These carriers do not exhibit symptoms, are not affected by the bacteria, and typically are not aware they carry the disease. They pass on the disease through their saliva by sneezing, coughing, sharing cups or utensils or through intimate contact such as kissing.

Clinics start May 1

The Aurora VNA will vaccinate adolescents 11 years and older against meningitis. Because college freshmen are still 6-times more likely to contract meningitis than the rest of the population, the VNA will continue to specifically target high school seniors to protect them before they head to college.

Starting Tuesday, May 1, 2007, the Aurora VNA will offer weekly meningitis vaccinations at its office:

11333 West National Ave.
West Allis
Every Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Clinics will be held through August. Registration is required.

If necessary, appointments outside regular clinic dates/times are available upon request. The cost of the vaccination is $95. Payments may be made with your online registration by credit card, or at the meningitis clinic by cash, check to the Aurora Visiting Nurse Association (VNA), or by Visa or MasterCard.

Please note: Individuals under age 18 must have a Meningococcal Consent Form completed by a parent or legal guardian. Completion of the form can be done at the appointment. Individuals under age 18 coming without a parent or legal guardian should:

1. Download and complete the Meningococcal Consent Form, and bring it to the appointment
2. Or call Lisa Taylor at 414-328-4495 to have it mailed

All individuals coming to the immunization clinic without a completed Meningococcal Consent Form will be asked to complete it before receiving the vaccination.

For more information on the disease, click here (Adobe Acrobat file).