ALERT!!

MEASLES (aka. rubella, Red Measles, Hard Measles, 10-day Measles)

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. Antibiotics are NOT available to treat persons infected with this organism. Recent outbreaks of this illness have included many hospitalizations and several deaths among college-aged persons, for these reasons it is strongly recommended that students of Institutions of Higher Education have two doses of the vaccine prior to beginning classes. Most young adults have had only one dose. The measles vaccine is most often given in combination with the vaccines for mumps and rubella which are also caused by viruses.

TETANUS (aka. Lockjaw)

The illness caused by tetanus results from the poison produced by a bacteria. Again this is a very difficult illness to treat once it occurs and prevention is the most appropriate choice. The vaccine is effective for about 10 years and needs to be boosted at that interval. It is now common for older adults to develop Tetanus in the United States as many adults do not receive the recommended 10 year boosters. The Tetanus vaccine should be given in combination with the diphtheria vaccine.

POLIOMYELITIS

In the United States, polio immunization is not routinely recommended for persons 18 years of age or older. However, if travel to other parts of the world is planned, a physician should be contacted for specific recommendations.

SECTION 2.09 AND 2.09A TEX. EDU. CODE

The campus health centers have information regarding local providers of immunization services. Check with the health center for specific local information.