Many other extremely valuable vaccines are available that are not required but highly recommended to optimize a lifelong, preventive healthcare program.
Immunizations Admission Requirements
For complete details regaring immunization admission requirements, please visit the Immunization Requirements section of the Student Insurance website.
Bacterial Meningitis
Young adults between the ages of 17-24 are at increased risk of developing a severe form of bacterial meningitis called meningococcal meningitis. The American College Health Association and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that students consider getting the meningitis vaccine. This bacterial infection, although rare, may cause severe neurologic impairment, partial loss of limbs, or death (9-12% mortality rate). Living in residence halls, bar patronage, and exposure to alcohol and cigarette smoke further increase the risk of infection within this age group. The incidence in young adults is about one case per 100,000. For freshmen living in residence halls, it is 3.8 or more per 100,000.
The meningococcal bacterium involved with invasive disease, such as meningitis or sepsis (a bloodstream infection) is usually one of five different subtypes, called Serogroups A, B, C, Y, and W-135. There are different vaccines for meningitis, one that covers the A,C,Y and W strains and one for the meningitis B strain. The meningitis A,C,Y, and W vaccines are safe and are estimated to protect for 3-5 years. For those who received a dose of vaccine at age 15 or younger, a 2nd booster has been recommended. Those who received a dose at age 16 or older do not need a booster dose. The meningitis B vaccines are also safe and recommended for people 10 years or older who are at increased risk of meningitis infection. These vaccines may also be given to anyone 16 through 23 years old to provide short-term protection against most strains of serogroup B meningococcal disease, based on discussions between the patient and health care provider. The preferred age for vaccination is 16 through 18 years.
https://uhs.fsu.edu/meningitis
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a serious viral liver infection, prevalent worldwide, which can lead to chronic liver disease and liver cancer. The State of Florida requires all school-age children to complete the three- shot series. Older students or out-of-state students may not be familiar with this recommendation. The Hepatitis B vaccine is extremely safe, effective and is required for any individual who may possibly be exposed to blood or other body fluids in their line of work or through sexual contact. We highly recommend getting this vaccine or at least discussing it with your primary care physician.
Polio, Tetanus, Tuberculosis
Have your doctor review the status of your Polio and Tetanus immunizations. Tetanus is recommended every 10 years routinely or within five years for contaminated or deep puncture wounds. A one-time dose of Tdap (which includes a small booster dose of pertussis) may be given anytime beyond 2 years or more from a previous Td, especially if exposure to children or working in health care is ongoing. Usually given as a tetanus/diphtheria combination shot called Td, the tetanus vaccine boosters should resume the 10-year schedule following the onetime Tdap.
A skin test for tuberculosis called a PPD should also be considered at this time if your doctor determines you have been potentially exposed, such as working in a high risk clinic or institution, extended travel to at risk countries, etc.
Chicken Pox (Varicella)
Chicken Pox (Varicella) is not uncommon among college students who have not yet experienced this childhood illness. Varicella vaccination is available and is highly recommended for all children, adolescents, and young adults who are susceptible to this viral disease. It is given as a two-shot series, one to two months apart. The vaccine is generally well tolerated; 3-5% of those vaccinated may experience a mild, varicella-like rash or low-grade fever, but complications are rare.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A, another viral illness affecting the liver, is especially prevalent in developing countries and is most often transmitted via contaminated food and water. Outbreaks occur throughout the United States and will likely continue and possibly increase in the next decade. Though not a cause of chronic liver disease, adults who develop Hepatitis A can be extremely ill and lose significant school or work time during the course of an infection. The Hepatitis A vaccine is very safe and is given as a two-shot series, six months apart. It is essential for anyone planning to travel to developing countries, but may be a good investment in your health even in the U.S
Influenza
Yearly flu shots (early October to mid December) are recommended for everyone, but are especially indicated for anyone with asthma, chronic heart or lung disease, diabetes, or other health problems that compromise the ability to fight infections. University Health Services provides influenza vaccines, often free to students as budget permits, but supplies are limited.
Flu Vaccines – Each fall we offer a free flu vaccine to students in order to protect them against influenza. For a list of dates and locations, click here.
Pneumococcal Vaccine
The pneumococcal vaccine, often misquoted as the "pneumonia vaccine," is recommended for students at risk for serious pneumococcal infections (those with asthma, diabetes, chronic heart or lung disease, weakened immune systems, etc.) This vaccine reduces the incidence of the most common cause of community acquired bacterial pneumonia, called pneumococcal pneumonia. Check with your family physician to see if you are a candidate.
HPV Vaccine
The HPV vaccine protects against the Human Papilloma Virus, which can lead to the development of cervical cancer and some types of venereal warts. Highly recommended for females before they become sexually active, Gardasil-9 is also approved for males as well. Most often given between ages 9 to 12, many patients, especially males, may wish to initiate this vaccine or complete the series before coming to FSU or after they arrive.
