Even though the majority of parents vaccinate their young children regularly with immunizations to protect them against diphtheria, polio, measles, mumps and other diseases, many parents seem unaware that their college-age children also need immunizations.

Peter N. Wenger, M.D., a New Jersey Medical School associate professor in the Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, and at New Jersey’s University of Medicine and Dentistry’s Department of Pediatrics, remarks: “Children who are preparing for their freshman year in a dormitory are at increased risk for bacterial meningitis.”

Every year, bacterial meningitis suddenly strikes, affecting almost 2,600 otherwise healthy people. Those most at risk are teenagers and young adults. Bacterial meningitis can cause permanent injury and even lead to death due to swelling of the brain and spinal cord, and although it can be successfully treated with antibiotics, 10 to 14% of cases end nevertheless fatal with almost 20% of those who survive ending up with brain damage, amputation or kidney failure.

Meningitis spreads through exchanging respiratory or throat secretions, including coughing or kissing but it is not as contagious as flu or a common cold. Scientists believe that crowded living conditions, sharing utensils, drinking glasses and cigarettes could be contributing factors in contracting meningitis, although they are not entirely sure of the mechanics.

According to recommendations by The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, all first-year college students should receive the meningitis vaccine, which is safe, highly effective and offers 3 to 5-year protection against the disease. Many states, amongst them Pennsylvania and New Jersey, have adopted a policy, which requires that all incoming students who live on college campuses are either vaccinated against meningitis or sign a waiver saying they choose not to be vaccinated.

A list of further vaccines that are recommended by Dr. Wenger for college students include:

  • HPV (human papilloma virus) – offers protection against viruses causing most cervical cancers, anal cancer, and genital warts
  • Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) – a one-time dose administered to teens and adults to protect against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough)
  • Hepatitis A – a serious disease in which the liver is attacked by a virus
  • Annual influenza immunization
  • Any vaccines that were not given as an infant – This includes chicken pox (if the child has not already acquired wild-type chicken pox)

New college entrants can either visit their doctor before they start college, or ensure to visit the college’s office of student health immediately upon arrival.

Written by Petra Rattue