The Grey Bruce Health Unit is offering a new vaccine to students.
Public Health Nurse Jody Kroeplin says Menactra protects against 4 different strains of meningococcal disease, including A, C, Y, and W-135.
The previous vaccine provided to students only protected against meningococcal type C.
Kroeplin says the shot is being offered to all Grade 7 students across the region.
She says it is highly recommended because meningococcal can be very serious.
Kroeplin says it’s caused by bacteria that most often results in meningitis, an infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord.
The most fatal complication of meningococcal disease is the blood infection septicemia, which is very fast moving and can result in death in just 6 to 12 hours.
Kroeplin says the Health Unit is targeting preadolescents with this vaccine because infection spreads through salvia.
She says that means activities like kissing or sharing water bottles, cigarettes, and musical instruments can put you at risk.
Vaccination clinics are already underway at schools across the region and will continue over the next couple of months.
Kroeplin says parents should be watching for consent forms and she invites them to call the Health Unit if they have any questions at 519-376-9420.
