Shot urged for college students

The rare, but sometimes fatal, meningococcal disease is spread through sharing cigarettes and drinking glasses, and through intimate contact -- all hallmarks of college dorm life. And, in fact, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control found that college students, especially freshmen living in dorms, are at a six times greater risk for the disease compared to all undergraduates.

Each year, an estimated 100 to 125 cases of meningococcal disease occur on college campuses and five to 15 students die as a result.

The Spokane Regional Health District offers a vaccine at a cost of $96 per dose. The vaccine is also available at some private clinics and on college campuses.

For more information, call the health district clinic at (509) 324-1600 or visit College Meningitis.com.