Mandatory Information

Minnesota law requires post-secondary schools to provide students with information regarding the transmission, treatment, and prevention of certain illnesses.  Although the vaccinations mentioned below are not mandatory, they are highly recommended.  They are available at most local medical clinics and are covered by some insurance plans.  Visit the Minnesota Department of Health web page regarding Minnesota's College Immunization Law and click on the links below for additional information regarding a specific topic.

Meningococcal Disease

Meningococcal disease is a serious illness caused by a bacteria. The bacteria can cause meningitis, which is an infection of the brain and spinal cord, and it can also cause blood infections.  College freshmen living in dorms or close living quarters are at a higher risk for meningococcal disease. There is a vaccine to protect against this disease.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a highly contagious disease that infects the liver. The highest rate of disease occurs in persons 20-49 years of age. There is a vaccine to protect against this disease.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is still a common disease in the United States. Hepatitis A symptoms are much more severe in adults than in children. Infected persons may need to rest in bed for days or weeks. There is a vaccine to protect against this disease.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is usually spread when blood from a person infected with the Hepatitis C virus enters the body of someone who is not infected.  Although there is currently no vaccine to prevent Hepatitis C, research is being conducted to develop one.

If you plan to travel internationally, you will likely need additional immunizations to maintain your health. Some immunizations require more than a single injection and four to six weeks to complete.  Plan accordingly and consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible to insure your travel plans will not be delayed.