Meningococcal disease has been diagnosed in a student who attends Western University. Close contacts have been offered prophylaxis. The serogroup has been identified as B so no vaccination is being offered. This is the first meningococcal case in 2012; in 2011, 4 serogroup Y cases and 1 serogroup B case were reported in Middlesex-London.

As a general reminder, students are being advised of the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease and to seek medical attention immediately if these develop. 

Since 2005, one-year-olds in Ontario have been routinely vaccinated against serogroup C meningococcal disease using a conjugate C vaccine; from 2005 to the first half of 2009, students in grade 7 and those 15 to 19 years of age were also offered conjugate C meningococcal vaccination. Since the fall of 2009, students in grade 7 have been offered conjugate quadrivalent meningococcal vaccination against serogroups A, C, Y and W135 (Menactra). These students are currently in Grades 7, 8 and 9. Others who want protection against the four serogroups need to purchase the conjugate quadrivalent vaccine (Menactra or Menveo) from a pharmacy. The conjugate quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine can also be received at the Health Unit's Immunization Clinic. It is free for those in Grade 7, 8 or 9 and costs $135 for others.