The Salt Lake Valley Health Department has received 500 doses of Menactra (a vaccine used to prevent infection caused by meningococcal bacteria) and is offering it to the public for $5 while the supply lasts. The Menactra vaccine usually costs about $100 per vaccination at public health clinics, but SLVHD is making this "Special Project" offer because the vaccine will reach its expiration date on May 9.

"While the expiration date is coming soon, the vaccine is still as effective and safe now as when it was first manufactured," said Sharon Moon, SLVHD immunization coordinator. But it will be thrown away after May 9.

Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis or can lead to sepsis. It is very dangerous because it often begins with symptoms that can be mistaken for other illnesses such as the flu. However, unlike more common infections, meningococcal disease can get worse very rapidly.

Each year, the SLVHD receives reports of about six cases of meningococcal disease in Salt Lake County. The CDC estimates that one in five people who get meningococcal disease will die.

The Menactra vaccine is recommended for individuals 11 to 55 years of age and is available on a first-come, first-served basis at the following SLVHD Health Clinics: South East Public Health Center, 9340 S. 700 East, Sandy, 255-7114; South Main Public Health Center, 3195 S. Main St., Salt Lake City, 483-5451; Ellis R. Shipp Public Health Center, 4535 S. 5600 West, West Valley City, 963-7335; and Salt Lake City Public Health Center, 610 S. 200 East, Salt Lake City, 534-4666.

For additional information on the availability of Menactra vaccine and vaccination guidelines, call 801-468-2086.