Student vaccinations urged

Getting a shot in the arm before school starts isn't always on the list of things to do, but school health officials say even if immunizations are not required, they're still a good idea — and not just for grade-schoolers.

In addition to kindergartners and junior high school students, college students are being encouraged to get immunized against diseases once thought to be common, as well as to fight off fairly new diseases that now plague young people.

The University of Utah requires that a second dose of the measles vaccine be given prior to enrollment at the school. Utah State University recommends that doses of the common vaccines be given, but they are not required.

Jim Davis, director of USU's health and wellness center, said most students come to college already vaccinated against things like tetanus, measles, polio, mumps, and the chicken pox, which are considered "common," he said. However, Davis recommends that students at least consider the new vaccines made for teens, which protect against potentially fatal illnesses such as meningitis and Human Papilloma Virus, which can lead to cervical cancer in women.

"The studies show that individuals who are in close, compact housing — like military recruits and individuals in small apartments and campus housing like dorms — are more susceptible to the bacteria that cause meningitis," Davis said.

The Menactra vaccine, he said, "is pricey but it is worthwhile in that it does prevent the infection."

The three doses of Gardasil, which protects against certain strains of the HPV, can cost anywhere from $75 to $125 each, depending on insurance coverage and availability. But Davis said it is a good idea to consider, given the prevalence of the disease nowadays.

Most vaccines range in price from $26 to about $150, but some youth can qualify for Utah's Vaccines for Children program, in which each injection costs only $5. Children who are on Medicaid, under-insured or who have no insurance can qualify, as well as American Indians. Vaccines and immunizations are available at any public health clinic, as well as at most college and university health centers.

If a student is not up to date on vaccinations, the U. has a policy that puts a hold on registration. Children entering kindergarten or junior high also have similar restrictions, as the school system requires an immunization record as proof.