HI HCR160

Department of Health requested to collaborate with Department of Education, Hawaii Association of Independent Schools, and University of Hawaii to provide information about meningococcal disease, including serogroups, symptoms, risks, prevention, and treatment to students and parents statewide.

Department of Health requested to include information on availability, benefits, risks, and limitations of all meningococcal vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, with specific focus on serogroups A and B and high-risk individuals.

Department of Health requested to make recommendations to educational institutions regarding immunization of current and entering adolescent and young adult students.

Meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria kills 10-15% of infected individuals even with treatment and causes serious morbidity in 10-20% of survivors, with highest risk among infants under one year and young adults ages 16-23.

Certified copies of the resolution to be transmitted to the Director of Health, Superintendent of Education, University of Hawaii chancellors, and Executive Director of Hawaii Association of Independent Schools.