If they are a college student, then the answer is “yes!”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 800-1,500 cases per year of meningococcal disease occur in the U.S. Many of you have probably heard of the meningococcal outbreaks on various college campuses over the last few years, but what you may not realize is that most of these outbreaks were caused by meningococcus serogroup B. The traditional meningococcal vaccine (MCV4) does not cover serogroup B, only serogroups A, C, Y, and W135. The CDC estimates that 1 out of every 3 invasive meningococcal cases is caused by serogroup B. A new vaccine against meningococcal B was not readily available for use until 2015.

As part of the University System of Georgia, Georgia Tech institutes immunization policies based on the recommendations set forth by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. At Georgia Tech students under 22 years of age are required to show that they have received the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4), which vaccinates against meningococcal serogroups A, C, Y, and W135, after their 16th birthday. MCV4 is a great vaccine, however, it does not protect against meningococcal B. Yes, that is correct the MCV4 vaccine does not protect your college age child against meningococcal B which causes one-third of invasive meningococcal disease cases.

Currently, in accordance with ACIP guidelines, Meningococcal B vaccine is not required at Georgia Tech. However, we strongly recommend students consider getting the Meningococcal B vaccine. As part of the Georgia Tech college community, Stamps Health Services (SHS) is deeply committed to providing our students with the best care possible. SHS also realizes that it is essential for parents of college students to be provided with the best, most up to date information available regarding the health care needs of your college children. Even though the meningococcal B vaccine is not required, it is available here at SHS if you would like to encourage your college age child to receive this vaccine.

Below are the prices for the meningococcal B vaccinations at SHS.

Bexsero (2 dose series) $197 per dose*

Trumemba (3 dose series) $138 per dose*

*Prescription insurance may cover some/all of the vaccine cost.

Please feel free to contact the pharmacy staff at Stamps Health Services for more information regarding your insurance coverage for the meningococcal B vaccine (404-894-7294).