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CDC Warns Meningitis Deaths May Rise Without Vaccination

1/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that meningitis deaths could rise if teen vaccination rates decline, despite a 90% drop since 2005.
Cases have surged since 2021 due to lower vaccination rates and mutating bacteria.
The CDC's recent changes no longer recommend universal vaccination for adolescents.
High-risk groups, including teenagers and immunocompromised individuals, are still advised to get vaccinated because meningitis progresses rapidly and can cause lifelong disabilities.

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Story summary

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that meningitis deaths could rise if teen vaccination rates decline, despite a 90% drop since 2005.
Cases have surged since 2021 due to lower vaccination rates and mutating bacteria.
The CDC's recent changes no longer recommend universal vaccination for adolescents.
High-risk groups, including teenagers and immunocompromised individuals, are still advised to get vaccinated because meningitis progresses rapidly and can cause lifelong disabilities.