Page 18 - 2026 Camp Emerson Family Handbook

MENINGOCOCCAL DISEASE
The Board of Health requires us to provide you with information about Meningococcal Disease.
What is meningococcal disease?
Meningococcal disease is caused by infection with bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. These bacteria
can infect the tissue (the
“
meninges
”) that surrounds the brain and spinal cord and cause meningitis, or
they may infect the blood or other organs of the body. In the US, about 1,000-3,000 people get
meningococcal disease each year and 10-15% die despite receiving antibiotic treatment. Of those who
survive, about 11-19% may lose limbs, become deaf, have problems with their nervous system, become
mentally retarded, or have seizures or strokes.
How is meningococcal disease spread?
These bacteria are passed from person-to-person through saliva (spit). You must be in close contact with
an infected person
’
s saliva in order for the bacteria to spread. Close contact includes activities such as
kissing, sharing water bottles, sharing eating/drinking utensils or sharing cigarettes with someone who
is infected; or being within 3-6 feet of someone who is infected and is coughing and sneezing.
Who is at most risk for getting meningococcal disease?
People who travel to certain parts of the world where the disease is very common are at risk for
meningococcal disease. Children and adults with damaged or removed spleens or an inherited immune
disorder (called “terminal complement component deficiency
”) are also at risk. People who live in
settings such as college dormitories are also at greater risk of disease.
Are camp attendees at increased risk for meningococcal disease?
Children attending day or residential camps are not considered to be at an increased risk for
meningococcal disease because of their participation.
Is there a vaccine against meningococcal disease?
There are currently 2 vaccines available in the US that protect against 4 of the most common of the 13
serogroups (subgroups) of N. meningitidis that cause serious disease. Protection with the meningococcal
polysaccharide vaccine lasts about 3 to 5 years. A meningococcal vaccine (conjugate vaccine), which was
licensed in January 2005, is expected to help decrease disease transmission and to provide more
long-term protection.
Should my child receive meningococcal vaccine?
Meningococcal vaccine is not recommended for attendance at camps. However, this vaccine is
recommended for certain age groups; contact your child’
s health care provider. In addition, parents of
children who are at higher risk of infection, because of certain medical conditions or other
circumstances, should discuss vaccination with their child’
s healthcare provider.
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