All incoming Illinois 12th graders will be getting their shots this year.

According to a new Illinois state law, upon entering the 12th grade, all students must show proof they have received the required two doses of meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4).  Students who recieved their first dose of MCV4 after age 16, will be required to get only 1 dose more before their senior year.  Any student who does not show proof of vacination, will not be let into school.

So, what is the shot preventing?

Meningococcal meningitis is an infection that can lead to brain damage, hearing loss, learning disabilities, and even death.  The infection spreads when people have close contact with someone’s saliva (as in kissing and coughing) — especially if people are living in the same place.

The meningococcal vaccine is the best way to protect teens from getting the disease.  Students and parents with questions should see the school nurse.