Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination Required for Spring 2012
Beginning Spring 2012 semester, a new state law requires all students entering institutions of higher education to show evidence of receiving a bacterial meningitis vaccination or booster dose during the five year period prior to enrollment and not less than ten days before the first day of the semester. Entering students include transfer students from other colleges and returning or continuing students who have had a break in enrollment of at least one fall or spring semester.
The law allows for exceptions for:
- A student 30 years of age or older;
- A student enrolled only in online or other distance learning courses;
- A student who submits an affidavit or certificate signed by a physician duly registered and licensed to practice medicine in the United States. It must be stated that, in the physician’s opinion, the vaccination required would be injurious to the health and well-being of the student; and
- A student who submits an affidavit signed by the student stating that the student declines the vaccination for bacterial meningitis for reasons of conscience, including religious belief. A conscientious exemption form (Affidavit Request for Exemption from Immunizations for Reasons of Conscience) from the Texas Department of State Health Services must be used. Several weeks are required to have the form approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services after it’s been submitted.
To get the vaccine, check with your family doctor or local public health department.
Coastal Bend College is working on a process for submission of immunization documentation and once finalized the process will be posted on the CBC website www.coastalbend.edu. Please continue to check for updated information regarding this new requirement.
For more information about immunization requirements, contact the Velma Elizalde, CBC Dean of Students Services at (361) 354-2301.
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