Media Release

FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: February 23, 1999
CONTACT: Robert J. Marshall Jr., Ph.D. 401-222-2231

Landmark Medical Center Holds Meningitis Vaccine Clinic
Health Department Reminds Public that Vaccine Still Available

The Rhode Island Department of Heath urges state residents to take advantage of free meningitis vaccine offered by various health plans, private physicians’ offices and health care facilities throughout the state.

Landmark Medical Center announced a routine, free clinic for meningococcal vaccine to be held on Saturday, February 27, 1999 from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm at the Fogarty Unit in Woonsocket. Only Rhode Island residents, ages 2 through 22 years may participate. Please bring proof of Rhode Island residency and call 769-4100 Ext. 5221 to pre-register.

The vaccine offers protection against most forms of disease caused by the meningococcus bacteria

According to Dr. Patricia A. Nolan, Director of Health, "Communities already vaccinated more than 90% of school age children in Rhode Island; so we are in good shape. Our main objective is to offer vaccine to those who missed last year’s campaign and kids who turned 2 years old ."

The Department of Health recommends:

• Persons previously vaccinated with meningococcal vaccine should not be re-vaccinated at this time.
• Immunizations for all persons (ages 2 through 22 years) moving into the state since February 1998
• Immunizations for all children who turned 2 years old after February 1998.
• Vaccination prior to attending daycare, school or college (not mandatory).

The Department of Health reports only four (4) confirmed cases of meningococcal disease (all among unvaccinated persons) since the spring 1998 immunization campaign.

For speech or hearing impaired,
1-800-745-5555 (TTY)
Department of Health Website: www.health.state.ri.us