Final answer:
The most important action to decrease the incidence of meningitis among adolescents and young adults is to prioritize immunization against Neisseria meningitidis, particularly for those in high-risk settings like college dormitories.
Step-by-step explanation:
In addressing the reduction of meningitis incidence in adolescents and young adults, the most important action to consider is immunization against Neisseria meningitidis (N. meningitidis). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children between 11-12 years of age be vaccinated with a quadrivalent vaccine that protects against serotypes A, C, W, and Y. A booster is then recommended at age 16. This strategy is particularly important for populations at higher risk of transmission such as college students living in dormitories, military personnel, and those traveling to high-risk areas.
Vaccination is also key in preventing meningococcal outbreaks on college campuses. With documented instances of severe consequences even among the vaccinated, it is clear that prevention through vaccination is critical. Hence, program planning should prioritize vaccination over measures that are less effective at reducing transmission in high-density living environments, such as hand-washing and avoiding crowds.
Furthermore, the Hib vaccine is crucial for preventing meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae but is targeted at a younger age group. Therefore, for the program's target audience of adolescents and young adults, the priority should be the meningococcal vaccine. Additionally, while hand hygiene and avoiding crowded places can help prevent the spread of infections, the direct and community-wide benefits of vaccination are unmatched.