Some shots are required and must be obtained before the new student will be permitted to receive a class schedule and attend classes.

The following are required here at Simpson University:

1. The initial series of Tetanus-Diphtheria (needed to attend public school in U.S.), and a Tetanus booster shot within the last ten years.
2. A total of two Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) shots.
3. TB test for students who are from high risk countries. These countries include all except Canada, Western European countries, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

Whenever possible, students must get these required shots or the TB test (if needed) before completing and submitting the online Immunization Record, which is part of the online registration process. However, incoming students may obtain shots after submitting the online form, but are requested to do so before coming to Orientation. (If a student gets these required shots/tests after submitting the online form, written documentation must be submitted, identifying the date on which the shot/test was received. This note may be sent to Admissions before Orientation or turned in at the Health Center after arrival at the college.) There are a limited number of shots available here during Orientation for those who couldn't get this accomplished before coming to campus. Payment for the vaccine is required at the time of service.

In addition to the required immunizations listed above, the following shots are recommended, but not required:

• Hepatitis B (a series of three shots)
• Meningococcal vaccine (Menomune), especially for freshmen living on campus. Go to Meningitis Risk to learn about this very serious disease.

The following information is provided to help you ascertain your immunization history and understand our requirements.

To find out the dates when you had various shots:

• Phone your high school and ask them to mail or fax your shot records to you.
• Check to see if you or a parent or guardian has a copy of your pre-kindergarten shot record.
• Check with your doctor's office where you may have had immunizations.

Tetanus/Diphtheria - These are usually given as one shot, but the tetanus is the one required for college. You need to have had a booster within the last 10 years. If you have had an injury that required stitches, you probably received a booster then, or perhaps before overseas travel. If your last booster was before kindergarten, you will definitely need to get one before you leave to come to Simpson.

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) - This immunization is usually given between the ages of one year and the start of kindergarten. You may have had a second MMR at some point, although in most areas of the country this is not a requirement. However, for entrance here at Simpson, as many other colleges, we require a total of two MMR's or two plain measles immunizations. If you have had only one, you will need to get a second one before you come to college.

Tuberculosis (TB test) - You only need this if you have traveled or lived abroad in the last two years.

Some other immunizations are strongly encouraged but not required. These are the Hepatitis B series and the Meningitis vaccine. Our prices for these immunizations are:

Hepatitis B: $13 per shot (Adolescent Vaccine) if under age 20, and $26 (Adult Vaccine) if over 20
Menomune, the vaccine for meningococcal meningitis: $60

Where to obtain your immunizations: If you still need to get one of the shots listed above, you may do so at:

• Your doctor's office
• Your county Public Health Department
• A travel health clinic in your area.

How can I get more information?

Call the Health Center (1-530-226-4178) or check these web sites: http://www.acha.org/ or www.cdc.gov/ncidod.
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