My heart goes out to yet another family who has lost a precious loved one from bacterial meningitis. I am one of three families in Cedar Rapids, IA who have lost their children within the past four years to this deadly disease. Meningitis is a dangerous and sometimes fatal inflammation of the brain and/or spinal cord that can also lead to sepsis (blood poisoning). We knew little about meningitis and were not aware that a vaccine was available to help protect our children. This illness mimics the flu and even fools the doctors into a false diagnosis until it is too late. Our children died within 15 hours of the first flu-like symptoms. Families need to be educated on the risks, symptoms and prevention methods. Minutes count so it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately to save the life of your child. Early signs are: fever, leg pain, cold hands and feet and abnormal skin color. Classic signs are: headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, fever, vomiting and a rash. Survivors can have long term disabilities such as brain damage, hearing loss, kidney failure, blindness and limb amputations. Adolescents and young adults have an increased risk of contracting this disease due to lifestyle factors. Since the bacteria is spread through air droplets and direct contact with someone who is infected (15% of the population can be carriers), this age group is more susceptible from sharing items by mouth (water bottles, cigarettes, lip balm, eating utensils, kissing, etc.) Crowded living situations, such as dormitories and sleep away camps, add to the risk. A new vaccine (Menactra) protects against four of the five strains and has been recommended by the CDC beginning at age 11 through the college years. Our children died from a vaccine preventable disease. Parents, please don’t wait – vaccinate your children – 85% protection is better than zero protection. Visit More ... or More ... for valuable information.

The Meningitis Foundation of America (MFA), a national organization, would like the public and media to know that information is available regarding the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of meningitis. MFA was founded by parents whose children were affected by meningitis. In addition to supporting vaccines and other means of preventing meningitis, the MFA provides information to educate the public and medical professionals so that the early diagnosis, treatment and, most important, prevention of meningitis, will save lives. Meningitis is a dangerous and sometimes fatal inflammation of the brain and/or spinal cord that can leave survivors with serious life-long physical problems such as deafness, brain damage and other disabilities. Complications from bacterial meningitis can sometimes result in loss of limbs. MFA has many spokespersons available and would like to be considered as a news resource for the disease. If you would like to arrange an interview please call Jamie Callahan, General Manager of the MFA. For further information, visit the MFA website at More ...

MFA is proud to announce the new C.I.S.S. Container Identification Scratch System
When we participate in sporting events or mingle at social gatherings it is possible to lose track of our water bottles and/or beverage cans, especially those served in containers that are very similar or identical to a container from which you are drinking. This carries the risk of transmitting an illness, such as meningitis or the common cold or flu. The Container Identification Scratch System, or C.I.S.S., is a fun way to make sure you always know your drink from others. Use it at sporting events or at a family gatherings and reduce the waste from forgotten drinks. Simply scratch your number from the C.I.S.S. label and identify your drink. For more information please contact Bob Gold at Ciss.bob@gmail.com


Thank you,

Ms. Jamie Callahan, General Manager
Meningitis Foundation of America
212 W 10th Street, Suite B-330
Indianapolis, IN 46202
(800) 668-1129
jcallahan@musa.org