Immunizations
By: Lavina Entel, Health Center
Most of you have submitted immunization records to the Health Center for your sons and daughters and we truly appreciate your efforts. As you know, our one “mandatory” immunization series is the MMR (Mumps, Measles, Rubella) vaccine, of which our greatest concern is immunity to Rubeola or the “hard” measles. On occasion, however, we are asked, “Why do I need this? Isn’t this disease no longer a problem?” For the most part, that answer would be “yes,” but occasionally a story comes to light that reminds us to be diligent. Check out this story from the February 14, 2014 issue of USA Today, about commuters on BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) who had been exposed to the Measles. Find additional information about the Measles here from the CDC.
Be sure your sons and daughters are up to date on ALL their immunizations. Check with your health care provider or have them check in at the Health Center to be sure they are current.
CDC Guidelines for:
Meningitis Vaccine – The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the American College Health Association (ACHA) recommends that parents and students are aware of the following information about meningitis: (a) Students living in residence halls are at slightly increased risk for bacterial meningitis; (b) Meningitis can be devastating; (c) Vaccination can reduce your risk. (THE HEALTH CENTER HIGHLY RECOMMENDS THIS VACCINATION.)
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) –If you have not had a Tdap booster since 2006, we encourage you to get one to protect yourself against pertussis as well as tetanus and diphtheria.
Mumps, Measles, Rubella (MMR) – Gonzaga University requires record of two MMR’s or proof of immunity (also known as rubeola titer) for anyone born after 1956.
Influenza – Flu vaccine is recommended every year. (Please note that although the Health Center is out of our allotment of vaccine for this year, it is still widely available at local pharmacies and your health care provider’s office.) Flu vaccine is the best protection we have from the flu and its complications.