My son is 17 years old. He will be starting college in September and dorming there. He received the meningitis vaccine in June 2005. (He went to High School at a college, so I didn’t take any chances). Does he need a booster shot? The doctors are so worried about giving away a vaccine that they always say don’t worry, he’ll be fine. But I read conflicting opinions on the internet. I am very concerned, and the fact that his dorm room is shared by 4 boys and is so small doesn’t make me feel better. It annoys me that the doctors have no concerns until there is a major outbreak. I have always pushed to have my son vaccinated before they become mandatory, from the time he was born. I am glad to this day that I have. Please help me because I have so many worries about him dorming, I’d like to do the right thing so it can be one less thing I don’t have to feel I put off. Thank you. Sincerely, Shari

Sue Burd responds:

I am glad to hear that your son received the vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends one vaccination with the meningococcal conjugate vaccine for all adolescents 11 through 18 years of age and college freshmen living in dormitories. These recommendations do not address revaccination or booster.

As to whether your son should receive an additional shot, I can only suggest that you talk with a qualified health care professional. You may want to make sure that the vaccine he received was Menactra and not Menomune. Menactra, a conjugate vaccine, was approved in 2005, and is expected to provide protection for at least eight years. Menomune, a polysaccharide vaccine, was available before Menactra’s approval and provides protection for three to five years.

Also, remind your son that students can help prevent spreading the disease by following good hygiene practices (e.g., washing hands), avoiding cigarettes and alcohol use and maximizing their body’s own immune response by eating well and getting enough sleep and exercise. It is always an anxious time for parents when their children leave for college. I want to wish your son and your family good luck with this transition.

Sue