Teens Should Get Meningitis Booster Shot: CDC Panel Vaccine doesn't last as long as believed, officials say

In 2007, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended that the meningitis vaccine -- usually given to college freshman -- be offered to 11 and 12 year olds, the Associated Press reported. The vaccine was initially aimed at high school and college students because bacterial meningitis is more dangerous for teens and can spread easily in crowded settings, such as dorm rooms.