State reduces meningitis vaccine requirement

[TexasTowelie]

Gov. Rick Perry has agreed to lower the age ceiling for the state's new meningitis vaccine requirement from 29 to 21, reducing the number of students who need the shot, which can cost up to $200, to enroll in Texas colleges and universities.

The meningococcal vaccination or an exemption became a necessity for most post-secondary students younger than 30 about 18 months ago.

Tightening the age range targets those 16 to 21 — the group most at risk for the deadly infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The amended law takes effect Oct. 1, which means older students entering this fall still must meet the requirement. The law will be in full force on Jan. 1 for the 2014 spring semester.

More at http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/education/article/State-reduces-meningitis-vaccine-requirement-4647349.php .

Meningococcal vaccine requirement

A new law narrows age range for Texas college students required to have the meningococcal vaccine, but those 29 and younger headed to school before Oct. 1 still must have the shot. An immunization usually costs at least $100 at retail pharmacies. Here are some cheaper options:

Texas Vaccines for Children:

If you qualify, get the shot before you turn 19. The program offers free or low-cost immunizations for uninsured or Medicaid-eligible children and for families that can't afford insurance deductibles or copayments. Visit immunizetexas.org for more information.

Your parents' insurance: Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, children up to 26 can receive covered vaccinations under mom's or dad's plan.

Café College: The resource center at 131 El Paso St. has a limited number of vouchers for a no-cost initial vaccine or booster dose for those referred to the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District. They apply to those between 19 and 29 who don't have health insurance, Medicaid or CHIP. Information is at cafecollege.org.

[font color=green]Something to mention when a Tea Partier comes forth spewing RW talking points about Obamacare making health care less available.[/font]

[Mojorabbit]

1. I had this when I was fourteen

I ended up being carried to the ER unconscious. Miserable thing to pick up.

[Ilsa]

2. I'm so sorry. The pediatrician describes it

as an infection that might not kill you, but you might wish it had.

I hope there was no permanent damage.

[Mojorabbit]

3. Thanks. No, no damage but it was a long recovery

I am glad they have a vaccine for the kids now. Nothing like that was available in my day.