11/08/2025
Meningococcal disease can cause meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and infections of the blood. Even when it is treated, meningococcal disease kills 10 to 15 infected people out of 100. And of those who survive, about 10 to 20 out of every 100 will suffer disabilities such as hearing loss, brain damage, kidney damage, loss of limbs, nervous system problems, or severe scars from skin grafts.
All 11 to 12 year olds should get a MenACWY vaccine, with a booster shot at 16 years old. Teens may also get a MenB vaccine, preferable at 16 through 18 years old.
Call the Calloway County Health Department for more information on eligibility or to schedule an appointment.