Program takes a 'shot' at meningitis

A new initiative made it easier for students to get meningitis vaccinations. Yellow smiley-face stickers decorated the clothing and backs of students who received meningitis vaccinations Wednesday, adding a touch of color to the dull autumn landscape. The $65 vaccinations, offered at seven locations on campus, were part of Penn's "Best Shot at a Healthy Future" program, which is designed to help prevent the spread of diseases like meningitis, which is potentially fatal. Flu shots were also available. All students were encouraged to get vaccinated because the second highest percentage of meningitis cases is found among people ages 15 to 24, and especially in 18- to 20- year-olds, according to MarJeanne Collins, director of Penn's Student Health Service. "What's different about their life are the risk factors for college-age students," Collins explained. Studies indicate that dormitory living, smoking, bar patronage and alcohol consumption all increase the risk of infection. The campus program was organized by Vaccess Health, an organization that specializes in college immunization programs. Collins had observed a similar program at Pennsylvania's Lafayette College that was organized by Vaccess, prompting her to organize one here at Penn. There have not been any meningitis cases at Penn since the mid-80s, but in recent years cases have been reported at Lehigh and Drexel universities. The possibility of winning prizes in a raffle attracted some students to the vaccination drive, but most came out of fears of contracting the disease. When College sophomore Samir Shah learned that meningitis was a "pretty fatal disease," he decided that there was "no point in taking chances" and got the vaccination. The bacteria that causes meningitis can also cause meningococcemia, a blood infection that carries a 15 to 30 percent chance of death. Yesterday's vaccination can prevent both. The vaccine's potential side effects include possible redness and swelling at the site of the injection. Letters were mailed to parents before Thanksgiving so that they could discuss the vaccine with their son or daughter. E-mails were also sent to students, and fliers were posted around campus. For College freshman Rachel Gross, parental influence was a factor in her decision. "My parents really wanted me to get it. I decided it was a good idea," Gross said. "Meningitis is being seen more and more on college campuses across the country," said Vernell Edwards, immunization coordinator for the University. "[Today's program] is an effort to protect the entire student body."