But please, please, please get a Meningitis vaccination before enrolling in any university. Many colleges and universities are requiring them for incoming freshman because of the dangerous disease is easily spread in the college environment. Bacterial Meningitis is very contagious and is often fatal. Those who do survive often lose limbs and have neurological problems.

There was an outbreak at my university about two years ago and it killed 5 students, 3 of whom were in the same fraternity. There was not a law in my state at the time that required the vaccination so several students petitioned the state legislature and meningitis vaccinations are now required for all incoming students (a waiver can be signed for religious and health reasons, etc.).

When the outbreak occurred, the ENTIRE student body of 17,000 was vaccinated, courtesy of the local public health department.

Make it easier on yourself and get it early. The new vaccine is good for 5-10 years!!!