August 18, 2011
Like other college freshmen, Gracen Gilmore has a lot to worry about before school starts. But getting required vaccinations is not on the top of her checklist.
Every state and university has different requirements for new students, but generally speaking:
"Most schools will probably either require or strongly recommend measles, mumps and rubella, Varicella titer, which is chickenpox, or proof of having had the disease, hepatitis B and a tetanus," said Dr. Maureen Olson of the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Because students live in such close quarters while at school, health officials encourage college-age kids to also be vaccinated against sexually transmitted HPV, pneumonia, hepatitis A and meningitis.
"Many at that age group will frequently share a drink or share a towel, and so meningitis has been shown to have an increased incidence in close living quarters such as a dorm," Olson explained.
And even though many in this generation may think they are invincible, doctors disagree and urge them to get their flu vaccines.
"I hope that I can remember to get my flu shot so I won't ever have to get the flu," Gilmore said.
Olson also advises incoming freshmen to remember to keep their rooms clean to stay healthy-- advice that parents will be happy to hear.
Click here for more information on teen vaccinations.
CNN
