Health department to offer meningococcal vaccination

The Putnam County Health Department will have about 125 doses of the vaccine for meningococcal disease left over after providing on-site clinics for college bound seniors at each of the four county high schools. Using the priority guidelines issued by the Indiana State Department of Health, the Putnam County Health Department will offer an evening clinic on Monday, April 17 from 6-7:30 p.m.

Vaccine eligibility will temporarily be expanded to include anyone 11-12 years of age and anyone 15 years of age or entering 9th grade. Any college bound student who will live in dormitory style housing and was unable to attend their school clinic is also encouraged to attend.

Vaccinations will be given free of charge on a first come basis. No appointments will be scheduled.

Recipients must meet the priority guidelines listed above to be eligible for vaccination.

Adolescents who are under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent/guardian, or an adult who is at least 18 years of age and has the written permission of the parent/guardian to accompany and sign consent for vaccination.

A complete immunization record for anyone receiving vaccination is requested before any immunization will be administered.

The Putnam County Health Department is located in the Courthouse Annex at 209 W. Liberty St. Participants need to park and enter through the North door of the building.

Information regarding meningococcal disease and vaccination can be found on-line atwww.immunize.org and www.cdc.org.