Effective January 1991, Louisiana Law (§R.S. 17:170) requires all students entering the university for the first time to show proof of immunization for tetanus/diphtheria (within the past 10 years) and show proof of a TB test (within the past year). In addition, all students born after 1956 and entering the university for the first time must show proof of immunization for measles, mumps, and rubella (two doses). Failure to show proof of these immunizations and test will require the student to receive the immunizations from a private physician or Student Health Services at the student's expense prior to registering for classes.

All first-time students shall be required to comply with these provisions unless the student submits a written statement from a physician stating that the procedure cannot be done because of medical reasons, a written dissent from a parent or guardian, or a written statement from a clergy stating that the procedure cannot be done for religious reasons. In the event of an outbreak of a communicable disease, the university may exclude from attendance all unimmunized students until the appropriate disease incubation has expired or the student presents proof of immunization.

Meningitis Policy

Loyola University does not require students to be immunized for meningitis. However, the American College Health Association and Student Health Service recommend that those students living on campus take the vaccination for meningitis. Students living on campus have an increased risk of disease. Other students wishing to reduce the risk of meningitis can also choose to be vaccinated.

Student Health Service can order the meningitis vaccination for any student. The cost of the vaccine is $80. Contact Student Health Service to place an order. The vaccine is 85% to 100% effective in preventing four kinds of bacteria (serogroups A, C, Y, W-135) that cause about 70% of the disease in the U.S. After vaccination, immunity develops within 7 to 10 days and remains effective 3 to 5 years. As with any vaccine, vaccination against meningitis may not protect 100% of all susceptible individuals.

Early Symptoms of Meningitis

Meningitis usually peaks in late winter and early spring, overlapping flu season, and symptoms can be easily mistaken for the flu.

Because the infection progresses quickly, students should seek medical care if two or more of these symptoms occur at one time.

If untreated, meningitis can lead to shock and death within hours of the first symptoms.

Who is at Risk for Meningitis?

Meningitis can strike at any age; however, certain groups have a greater risk for contracting the disease.

• College students, particularly freshmen, who live in campus residence halls.
• Anyone in close contact with a known case.
• Anyone with an upper respiratory infection with a compromised immune system.
• Anyone traveling to endemic areas of the world where meningitis is prevalent.

How is Meningitis Transmitted?

Meningicoccal bacteria are transmitted through air droplets and direct contact with persons already infected with the disease.

Direct contact also occurs with shared items, such as cigarettes or drinking glasses, or through intimate contact such as kissing.