Our program offers meningococcal immunization (Menactra™) to incoming college freshmen who will be living in dormitories as well as to others who meet the recommendations stated by the CDC (Center for Disease Control) guidelines.

We offer convenient scheduling at our Wyomissing location by appointment only.

For additional information on any of our Community Health Programs or to schedule an appointment, please contact:

Colleen Paolucci, Community Health Coordinator
Phone: (610) 378-0481, extension 3293
Email: colleen.paolucci@hhcminc.org

Information on Meningococcal Disease

Meningococcal disease is a rare, but potentially fatal bacterial infection that can cause meningitis – a severe swelling of the brain and spinal cord or meningococcemia – a serious blood infection. The disease can be spread through the exchange of fluids found in the respiratory system and throat (such as saliva), usually through close, personal contact with someone who is infected. Certain social behaviors such as kissing, sharing drinking glasses, being in crowded situations put may young people at risk.

Because outbreaks occur in colleges, schools and child-care centers, and other areas where people have close contact, meningococcal infections often cause panic in the community.

Meningococcal disease often begins with symptoms that look like other common viral illnesses such as the flu. However, unlike the more common infections, the disease gets worse rapidly and it can kill an otherwise healthy person in 48 hours or less. In fact, 1 in 5 people who get meningococcal disease will die. Of those who survive, 1 in 5 will suffer permanent disabilities such as limb amputation, severe scarring, brain damage, and hearing loss.

Although meningococcal disease is serious and potentially life threatening, up to 83% of the cases in adolescents and young adults are potentially vaccine preventable. The meningococcal vaccine has been demonstrated to be safe, and offers protection against four of the five most commons strains of bacteria that cause the disease.