More than half of Tennessee teens aren't vaccinated against meningitis, according to the Tennessee Association of School Nurses.
With the new school year beginning, the group is urging parents to get the shots for their children.
The first is administered at age 11 or 12, and a booster should be given between ages 16 and 18.
Meningococcal meningitis can be spread through contact like sharing drink bottles.
10 percent of people who get the disease die.
The shots are not required in Tennessee, but are recommended.
There's no charge for the vaccine at public health clinics for children on Tenncare.