Princeton University administrators are mulling a meningitis vaccine for students, an emergency response to an outbreak on campus that has left seven with the disease diagnosis since March.
One key consideration: The vaccine hasn’t been approved by U.S. authorities to stop the disease’s spread, The Associated Press reported. Health officials should have their decision — to vaccinate or not to vaccinate — before the end of the week.
The Food and Drug Administration has approved the import of the drug Bexsero for use on Princeton’s campus, if administrators decide to pursue that route, AP reported. It’s already been approved in Europe and in Australia. Moreover, it’s the only vaccine that’s been approved to stop type B meningococcal bacteria, AP said.
The disease, which effects the brain, is spread by kissing, coughing and even sharing drinking glasses, Fox News reported. Students were advised to not share food items and to cover their mouths while coughing, AP said.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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