SJR78 Summary

• Recognizes the importance of meningococcal disease awareness and prevention in Alabama.

• Notes that approximately 1,000 to 1,200 cases of meningococcal disease occur annually in the United States, with 10-15 percent mortality rate and 11-19 percent serious morbidity among survivors.

• Identifies infants under one year and young adults aged 16-21 as most commonly affected, with serogroups B, C, and Y accounting for most cases.

• Directs Alabama colleges and universities to educate students on the benefits and risks of meningococcal immunization in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations.

• Adopted by the Alabama Senate on March 1, 2018 and by the House on March 8, 2018.