As a result of the outbreaks of mumps and pertussis (whooping cough) in the United States over the past few years, several national organizations have made changes in their recommendations regarding mumps and pertussis immunizations for college students. Transmission of these two diseases has been widespread in college-age students (18-24 year olds) for many reasons. Consistent with the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American College Health Association (ACHA), Gustavus is strongly recommending that all students have received:
1) Two (2) doses of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in their lifetime or have other evidence of immunity to mumps,
2) Tetanus booster continued every ten (10) years, but the next booster obtained to include the pertussis component through use of Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria,acellular pertussis), unless previous reaction to pertussis vaccine.
For attendance at Gustavus, at least one dose of MMR and a tetanus booster within the past ten (10) years is
required. However, the College continues to monitor the situation carefully and could require two doses of MMR for all students for continued enrollment in subsequent semesters. Although not a requirement, Health Services highly recommends the meningitis vaccine for Gustavus students. Please feel free to contact Health Services at (507) 933-7630 if you have questions about immunizations.