Meningococcal Vaccine Information

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all persons 11-18 years of age receive the meningococcal vaccine (MCV4, Menactra).  If not previously vaccinated all college freshmen living in the dormitories should receive the vaccine.  The CDC further states:

Meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria that infects the bloodstream and the linings of the brain and spinal cord, causing serious illness.  Every year in the United States 1,400 to 2,800 people get meningococcal disease...and 11-19 percent of survivors have permanent disabilities (such as mental retardation, hearing loss, and loss of limbs).  The disease often begins with symptoms that can be mistaken for common illnesses, such as the flu. Meningococcal disease is particularly dangerous because it progresses rapidly and can kill within hours.  Disease caused by meningococcal bacteria kills about 300 people each year in the United States… The vaccine is highly effective. However, it does not protect people against meningococcal disease caused by “type B” bacteria.  This type of bacteria causes one-third of meningococcal cases.

The Indiana University Health Center (IUHC) supports this recommendation.  It is not an IU requirement.  More information about meningococcal meningitis and the meningococcal vaccine can be found on the IUHC web site:                                                 www.indiana.edu/~health.  

Indiana University requires vaccination for measles, rubella, mumps, tetanus and diphtheria and tuberculosis testing for international students.  Specifics are listed on the Office of the Registrar’s web site:  http://www.registrar.indiana.edu/   Other important vaccines include hepatitis B, chickenpox (if you have not had chicken pox disease) and influenza.  Many students may have already received chickenpox or hepatitis B vaccines in childhood.  If not, we strongly recommend them.  We also recommend annual flu shots especially for those living in dorms or Greek housing. 

Indiana University Bloomington students may obtain any of these vaccinations by calling the IUHC at 812-855-7688 to schedule an appointment with the Immunization Clinic.  If you have additional questions or concerns, please call the IUHC at 812-855-5002 or ask your local medical provider.