Meningitis Vaccine Reminder

Bacterial meningitis is a serious disease that causes inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, which can cause permanent disability or death. The risk of transmission is increased when people live in close quarters, such as in dormitories on college campuses. A bacterial meningitis vaccine or booster can help mitigate the risk of contracting the disease.

Texas Education Code, Sections 51.9191 and 51.9192, require public institutions of higher education to distribute information to first-time students regarding bacterial meningitis including symptoms, diagnosis, transmission, prevention, and how to seek vaccination or additional information. The information must be distributed in a way that is likely to come to the attention of each student. Reasonable effort must be made to obtain confirmation by each student (within two months of first enrollment) that the information has been received, and the institution must keep that documentation for two years.

First time students who are not claiming an exemption must receive the initial bacterial meningitis vaccine or a booster no more than five years and at least 10 days before initial enrollment. Students who initially enrolled before January 1, 2012 and who have taken at least a one semester break are also subject to the requirements.

Under certain circumstances, students can claim an exemption to the required vaccination or booster. Exceptions are available to students who are 22 years or older on the first day of the semester, students who are enrolled only in distance education or online classes, those who have a signed doctor affidavit, or for conscience/religious reasons. Students who claim a conscience reason must submit the required Department of State Health Services form. 

If your campus would like assistance with implementing or reviewing policies designed to comply with the requirements listed above, or if you have questions or concerns, please contact Kelly Wintemute.

Joseph Agins recently accepted the position of Compliance Officer at Sam Houston State University. Joe was formerly Director of Ethics & Compliance for Apollo Education Group, a private education provider. Joe has worked in the related fields of compliance, ethics, fraud and investigations for over 20 years, recently serving as a board member for the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). Joe is also co-founder of the Arizona Ethics & Compliance Council (AECC), and is regularly invited to speak about compliance at major conferences around the country and abroad. Joe holds a master’s degree in Administration of Justice, is a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and is certified in Corporate Ethics and Compliance Management (CECM). Joe and his family come to Texas by way of Arizona. Joe is excited to be at SHSU, and looks forward to building a great compliance program! You can reach Joe at 936-294-2671 or jxa101@shsu.edu.

The Texas State University System is committed to complying with all applicable laws, regulations and policies. The System compliance program advises and collaborates with components to develop effective ways to mitigate risks on TSUS campuses. Serving to advance the goals of the System and its institutions, the compliance office offers resources, education, information and guidance while promoting a culture of responsibility and accountability.

Feedback regarding the System compliance program or the Compliance Community newsletters is welcome. Please contact Kelly Wintemute with suggestions.

August 2016