Minnesotans Who Attend Wisconsin-Madison Need Additional Vaccine

The Minnesota Department of Health announced Thursday that students who attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison should get a second meningococcal B vaccine while home over winter break.

In a news release, the Department of Health indicated that due to recent cases of the meningococcal disease on the Madison campus, Minnesotans home over the holiday break should get a second vaccine against the disease. Parents or students should contact their primary care provider right away for an appointment, as clinics may need to order extra doses.

Three cases of the disease were reported on the campus in October. Each individual was admitted to a hospital and is now recovering. The school held vaccination clinics after the breakout, but a second vaccine is necessary for the full protection. Students who did not get the first vaccine should still consult their doctor on the issue.

The disease, frequently referred to as meningitis, is a rare but potentially serious infection of the brain and spinal cord.