TITLE: Recognizing the important role of vaccinations in preventing meningococcal disease.

SUMMARY: Recognizing the important role of vaccinations in preventing meningococcal disease.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Vaccinations play an important role in preventing the contraction and spread of meningococcal disease; more than 1,000 such cases occur in the United States each year, and of those persons infected, 10 to 15 percent will die, while another 10 to 20 percent will suffer serious complications, including brain or kidney damage, loss of limbs, and nervous system problems; and WHEREAS, There are many different strains, or serogroups, of meningococcal disease, of which B, C, and Yare the most commonly seen in the United States, and vaccines can help to provide protection against all three; additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccination against selected serogroups; and WHEREAS, Meningococcal disease, which is spread from person to person during close or lengthy contact, most commonly affects individuals from ages 16 to 23; because of low vaccination rates among young people, several outbreaks of meningitis Bhave occurred on college campuses around the country in recent years; the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that young adults from ages 16 to 23 consult with a health care professional about being immunized against serogroup B; and WHEREAS, Although meningococcal disease is extremely dangerous, if not fatal, it can be prevented through proper vaccinations, and a greater awareness of this issue would be beneficial to the health and well-being of many Texans; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the 85th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby recognize the importance of vaccinations in preventing meningococcal disease and encourage all Texans to learn more about this vital issue.