The following are recommended vaccinations, which we encourage you to consider. Your health care provider can assist you with your decision of which vaccines are right for you or call University Health Services for more detailed information. The vaccines are made available to you at University Health Services for a fee.

Hepatitis B Vaccine- Hepatitis B is a viral infection of the liver spread by sexual activity or exposure to blood or body fluids. A vaccine series of three shots given over 6 months provides immunity. The vaccine is considered very effective and safe. If you are under 18 years of age Hepatitis B vaccine is provided free by the state. Talk with your health care provider or call University Health Services for more information. We recommend this vaccine to all students.

Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine (Gardasil)-  There are many strains of HPV, some causing genital warts and other causing changes that can lead to cervical cancer.  Gardasil is a series of 3 shots over 6 months, protecting against 4 of the most common types of HPV. It’s approved for women 9-26 years old.

Influenza Vaccine- Influenza vaccine is offered yearly, usually late fall and early winter. The vaccine must be received each year to protect against the strains predicted for that flu season.  A flu shot is highly recommended for all college students, and particularly for anyone with an illness or condition, which might increase their susceptibility to severe influenza illness.  Look for our postings on campus and in the school newspaper to receive your flu shot at University Health Services.

Meningococcal Vaccine- Meningococcal disease is a rare but very serious infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advocates that college students, particularly freshmen living in residence halls, be educated about meningococcal meningitis and the benefits of vaccination. This recommendation is based on recent studies showing that college students, particularly freshmen living in residence halls, have a six fold increased risk of meningococcal meningitis. It should also be considered for students with medical conditions that compromise immunity (e.g. HIV, absent spleen, cancer) and for students traveling to areas of the world with endemic meningococcal disease.

TdaP- protects against Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis, also known as whooping cough.  TdaP is highly recommended, especially for students planning to work with children or the elderly, for example in the healthcare or education fields.

Varicella (chickenpox) Vaccine- This vaccine is suggested for anyone who has not had the chickenpox as a child. If you are unsure a blood test is available to determine immunity.

Tuberculosis Testing (TB)- This is not a vaccine, but an early detection method for tuberculosis infection. TB has been on the rise in recent years and we strongly encourage testing before coming to college. It is also required for students involved in College of Nursing courses. A TB test may be recommended for travel abroad.

Portland Campus 780-4211   Gorham Campus 780-5411   (www.usm.maine.edu/health)