The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (ACIP) recommends routine vaccination for incoming college freshmen living in dorms with the meningococcal conjugate vaccine called Menactra. 

Currently there are two meningococcal vaccines used in the US.   Both provide protection for 4 types of meningococcal strains, which account for two-thirds of meningococcal disease in the US.  Menactra is the preferred vaccine because it confers longer lasting, may not need a booster and better reduces the transmission of bacteria.

Meningococcal meningitis is caused by bacteria that infect the bloodstream and lining of the brain and spinal cord.  In the US, 1,000-2,000 cases are reported each year.  Even with treatment 10-25% of these people die.  A study in Maryland (JAMA 1999; 281:1906-10) reported that college students living in dormitories were 3 times as likely to get meningitis as students who lived off campus.

Contact your family physician or Student Health for information and availability.   Students who have been previously vaccinated do not need to be revaccinated unless they received Menomune 3 or more years ago.