Required vaccination pricey, frustrating

For students who have taken a break in the fall from school, going back in the spring could be a headache.

In addition to filling out all the paper work and waiting in the infamous line to talk to an adviser, students will have to deal with another obstacle: the meningitis shot.

Due to a Texas state requirement, students returning after a semester break must now provide proof of the meningitis vaccination to the college or university they will be attending starting in the Spring 2012  semester.

 The law was passed in the 2011 session of the Texas Legislature. For many students, this new law has come as a surprise.

"Really," said 22-year-old Nancy Guzman. "This is stupid. These colleges are always requiring so many things, and a meningitis shot is just too much."

After taking a break from school, Guzman was ready to get back into school again, but she was not expecting to have to get a shot upon returning.  "And I hate needles," she added.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, meningitis is a disease "caused by inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges.

The inflammation is usually caused by an infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord."

It is also referred to as spinal meningitis.

Health officials say it can be spread through kissing, sharing drinks, lip glosses and all other activities in which respiratory secretions, throat secretions and saliva are exchanged.  

Meningitis is characterized by sudden onset fever, headache and stiff neck.

Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, photophobia (sensitivity to light) and altered mental functions.  

Richland nurse Sue Pilukaitis said symptoms can sometimes be confused with the flu or cold.

The disease can possibly be fatal within 24 hours.

"It's very dangerous and could be fatal," said Diane Bedenkop, another Richland nurse. "It doesn't make sense not to get the shot."

"People who are at high risk are those who are between the ages of 18-27," said Angelique Starr, administrative assistant at the Richland Health Center. "It's the age in which you are in college and in dorm rooms."

 For some students though, getting the vaccine can be problematic. The shot can cost $135 or more.

"The reason the shot is so expensive is that the base cost is $80 when you buy it from the manufacturer and that's the cost without medical personnel included," said Starr. "Shots usually range between $100 and $200."

"The vaccine costs more than a class! That's crazy!" one incoming freshmen said while registering for the upcoming spring semester.

 A proof of vaccination must be shown before registering for classes.  

Due to a high number of students coming in to take shots, it is advisable to make an appointment.

To make an appointment, call 971-238-6135.

The new law requires that the vaccination must be at least 10 days before the first day of class. This allows time for the vaccine to take effect.

Booster shots must have been received within the last five years to qualify.

You must also provide proof of vaccination if enrolling for wintermester.