Immunizations

New York State Law mandates that all college students provide proof of vaccinations for measles, mumps and rubella, as detailed below. If no vaccination, proof of positive titer or physician diagnosis of disease is necessary. (*Students born before January 1, 1957 are age exempt).  New York State Public Health Law also requires that students sign a statement, which RIT provides, about Meningococcal (Meningitis) disease and vaccine availability.

RIT requires all students to provide proof of vaccinations for Meningococcal,  Hepatitis B, and Tetanus.   PPD skin tests are required for high risk students, see detailed information below.

     Please Read:  Immunization Information From Dr. Destler, President of RIT (9-7-09) 

New York State Requirements:   Immunizations

Failure to comply with these New York State requirements will result in withdrawal from classes !

  • Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine-2 doses at least 30 days apart with first dose after January 1, 1968 and on/after first birthday.
  • New York State Public Health Law requires that RIT provide all students with information about Meningococcal (Meningitis) disease and obtain a signature from the student verifying that they understand the benefits and risks of the vaccine.

RIT Requirements:   Immunizations

 Meningococcal vaccine - 1 dose of Tetravalent (A,C,Y, W-135) vaccine required   for students 26 years or younger.  Meningococcal vaccination and signature are required as stated above.  Failure to comply with this select RIT requirement will result in withdrawal from classes !

  •  Hepatitis B vaccine-series of 3 shots over 6 months.
  •  Tetanus-initial DPT series and Td booster within the past 10 years (Tdap or Adacel recommended to provide protection against pertussis).
  •  PPD skin test for tuberculosis for high risk students
    • Students who may have been exposed to someone with tuberculosis.
    • International students from high incidence areas including: Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia and Central and South America, regardless of previous BCG vaccination.
    • Students who have weakened immune systems from disease or medications.
    • Students who are HIV+
    • Students who are injecting drug users.

RIT Recommended:  Immunizations

  • Influenza vaccine-1 dose given annually. This vaccine is particularly recommended for students with a chronic illness (such as diabetes, a heart problem or asthma) or with a condition/medication that affects the immune system, putting one at higher risk for flu complications.
  • HPV vaccine (Gardasil)-a series of 3 doses over 6 months. This vaccine is recommended for women ages 9-26 to protect against 4 types of HPV (Human Papillomavirus)-the virus that causes genital warts and cervical cancer.
  • Varicella vaccine (Varivax)-2 doses 4-8 weeks apart for students who have not had varicella (chicken pox).
  • Pneumococcal vaccine (Pneumovax)-1 dose for students with cochlear implants and some students with heart disease or a weakened immune system.

Many immunizations are available at the SHC for a fee (cash, check or "TigerBucks"). For one immunization you may walk in for express service between the hours of 8:30 am-12:00 pm and 2:00 pm-4:00 pm. For two or more immunizations please make an appointment. Please note: Students are required to wait in the Center for 20 minutes following the injection.