All schoolchildren entering seventh grade and before starting 12th grade in Maine must now be immunized against meningococcal infections.
Dr. Bruce Bates, director of the Maine CDC, testified in favor of the bill stated “Meningococcal bacteria can cause severe life-threatening disease … and can result in permanent disabilities and even death within hours of the first symptoms. One in 10 cases results in death. Young adults are at greatest risk … due to close contact through sports and the large group setting of school”.
The bill authorized the Department of Education and Department of Health and Human Services to add vaccination against meningococcal disease to the list of Maine School Immunization Requirements.

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