IMMUNIZATIONS AND TB SCREENINGS

Charges

Review our Charges to Students page to see if a particular immunization is free of charge, or has an associated fee. If there is a charge, pre-pay for the vaccine in Accounting, Bailey Hall, on the Santa Rosa Campus or Jacobs Hall, Room 110, on the Petaluma Campus, and bring the receipt to your Student Health Services appointment.

All immunizations are available in SHS on the Santa Rosa and Petaluma Campuses.

For additional information, please contact Rebecca Norwick at rnorwick@santarosa.edu.

  • HEPATITIS A

    Hepatitis A is a serious disease of the liver which can cause "flu-like" symptoms, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), and severe abdominal pain and diarrhea. Infection may result in hospitalization and in rare cases death. The disease is transmitted by the Hepatitis A virus which is found in the stool of infected persons. The disease may be transmitted by direct person-to-person contact, from contaminated water or ice, shellfish from sewage contaminated water, vegetables, fruits and any other foods that may have become contaminated during handling, and subsequently eaten uncooked.

    Potential Indications for HAV Vaccination

    Child care center staff and attendees Food Handlers Patients with hemophilia receiving solvent-detergent treated factor concentrates Foreign travelers (other than Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Western Europe and Scandinavia) Children 2 years and older in defined communities of high incidence of Hepatitis A People with Chronic Liver disease Anyone with Hepatitis B or C disease Homosexual and Bisexual Men Users of injection and illicit drugs Those with occupational risk of exposure to Hepatitis A

    Hepatitis A Vaccine (HAV)

    The Hepatitis A vaccine is given in two doses with at least a six month interval between each dose. Four weeks after the first dose of HAV vaccine one has immunity, but to insure lasting immunity (believed to last at least 20 years) you need to get the second one in 6 months. Other vaccines may be given at the same time as the Hepatitis A vaccine. The vaccine should not be administered to persons with a hypersensitivity to the components in the vaccine such as alum or the preservative 2-phenoxyethanol. Because the vaccine is inactivated there is no need for special precautions to be taken in the case of immunocompromised persons. The vaccination of a person with immunity to Hepatitis A does not increase the risk of any adverse effects. There is no data available regarding the safety of vaccination during pregnancy, though the theoretical risk is expected to be low.

    Student Health Services does not provide the Hepatitis A vaccine, but will provide community referrals.

    MORE INFORMATION

    • Visit the Web site of the Immunization Action Coalition to view their "Vaccine Information Statements" for further information about Hepatitis A vaccine.
  • HEPATITIS B

    Hepatitis B is a highly contagious virus that infects the liver in all age groups. It is a "silent disease" that infects many people without making them feel sick. Misdiagnosis can occur because the symptoms are like the "flu." The Hepatitis B virus is found in bodily fluids such as blood, semen and vaginal secretions, and can be transmitted sexually. Thousands of victims are adolescents and young adults. Hepatitis B kills over 5,000 Americans every year. Some people carry Hepatitis B unknowingly, and unintentionally infect others for a long time. Hepatitis B makes you lose your appetite, feel extremely tired, have stomach cramps, and vomit. If you are more seriously ill, your skin and eyes may turn yellow with jaundice and you may need hospitalization. Hepatitis B can also lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer and death in many of those afflicted.

    The Spread of Hepatitis B

    The virus is found in the blood and body fluids of infected people and can be spread through sexual contact, the sharing of needles or razors, and from mother to infant during childbirth. The Hepatitis B virus is hardy and can live outside the body for several days.

    People at Risk for Hepatitis B

    • Sexually active people who do not use barrier protection or who are monogamous but have a partner at risk for Hepatitis B infection
    • People who use street drugs/share needles
    • People who practice tattooing or body piercing with unsterilized equipment
    • Adolescents with risk taking behaviors
    • International travelers who visit endemic areas
    • People whose jobs potentially expose them to human blood or body fluids
    • People who live with others who are chronic carriers of the Hepatitis B virus
    • Children of immigrants or parents of adopted children from Asia, Africa, the Amazon Basin in South America, the Pacific Islands, Eastern Europe, or the Middle East
       

    Hepatitis B Vaccine (HBV)

    All people who are at risk for Hepatitis B infection should be immunized. Hepatitis B infection is increasing so rapidly in the United States that the Hepatitis B vaccination series is now a requirement for entry into kindergarten.

    The vaccine is extremely safe and effective. You cannot get Hepatitis B from the vaccine. The most common side effect is soreness at the site of injection. The benefits of being vaccinated outweigh the risks. Hepatitis B is the only Sexually Transmitted Disease for which there is a vaccine that offers protection.

    The Hepatitis B vaccine is administered in a series of three shots. It is best to get the second vaccination one month after the first. The third vaccination should be administered six months after the first shot (five months after the second).

    Where to Receive the Hepatitis B Vaccine

    Students can get vaccinated for Hepatitis B at Student Health Services. Hepatitis B vaccination is also available (at varying costs) through private providers and at the Sonoma County Public Health Department as well as at various Community Health Centers. Registered students that are 18 years old or younger may receive the Hepatitis B vaccine free of charge at Student Health Services through a special County vaccination program. Registered students that are 18 years old or younger may receive the Hepatitis B vaccine free of charge at Student Health Services through a special County vaccination program.

    MORE INFORMATION

  • HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS (HPV)

    What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?

    Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that affects men and women. There are at least 100 different strains of the virus, and about 30 of these are sexually transmitted and can infect the genital area.

    HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United Sates. As many as 20 million Americans are already infected with HPV, and there are more than 6 million new infections diagnosed each year.

    HPV can cause changes to the cells of the cervix, penis, and anus. Some types of HPV cause genital warts and other cellular changes that are benign (abnormal but noncancerous). Certain strains of HPV have been shown to cause cervical, penile and anal cancer. The vast majority of people with HPV infection have no symptoms at all.

    Genital Warts

    Genital warts, or condyloma, are one kind of lesion caused by HPV. The lesion or growth can appear on the shaft or head of the penis or on the vagina, vulva, or cervix. Genital warts can also appear around the anus and urethra in both men and women and are sometimes even found in the mouth and throat. In many cases, warts are not visible to the naked eye. In other cases they can appear as soft, moist, pink or red swelling. They can be raised or flat, single or multiple, small or large. Some cluster together forming a cauliflower like shape. Although genital warts are usually painless, they may become sore, itch, or burn if hit, rubbed, irritated, or ignored for a long period of time. The strains of HPV that cause genital warts are not the same as the strains that have been linked to cervical cancer.

    Vaccination: Gardasil

    The FDA has approved a vaccine (Gardasil) that protects against four strains of HPV for use in women and men, ages 9-26. These four strains cause approximately 70% of cervical cancers and 90% of genital warts.

    The vaccine is given as a series of three injections. The first dose can be given at any time. The second dose follows two months after the first dose, and the third dose is given six months after the first dose. The HPV vaccine is available at Student Health Services. Students who are interested in receiving the vaccine should call 527-4445 to schedule an appointment to receive their first vaccination and information on current vaccine pricing. Financial assistance from the HPV vaccine manufacturing company may be available for qualified individuals. Student Health Services staff can assess for eligibility and facilitate the application process. Students who believe they may be at risk for HPV infection, but are over the age of 26 should discuss the issue with their health care provider to determine if vaccination a good choice for them. Students who have questions about the vaccine and would like to know more before deciding whether to schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine can speak one-on-one with a college nurse practitioner by calling 527-4445 and requesting an HPV consult.

    MORE INFORMATION

  • INFLUENZA

    Influenza (“flu”) is a serious disease that can cause fever, cough, sore throat, headache, chills and muscle aches. Influenza viruses change often; therefore influenza vaccine is updated every year. Influenza vaccine can prevent influenza.

    The Spread of Influenza

    Influenza is caused by a virus that spreads from infected persons to the nose or throat of others. Anyone can get influenza. Most people are ill with influenza for only a few days, but some get much sicker and may need to be hospitalized. Influenza causes thousands of deaths each year, mostly among the elderly.

    Influenza Vaccine

    Most people need one flu shot each year to prevent influenza. Children under 9 years old getting flu vaccine for the first time should get 2 shots, one month apart. The best time to get a flu shot is in October or November. Because the flu season typically peaks between January and March, vaccination in December, or even later can be beneficial in most years.

    MORE INFORMATION

  • MEASELS, MUMPS, AND RUBELLA (MMR)

    Measles

    Measles (Rubeola) is responsible for more than one million deaths worldwide each year. It was once thought to be a disease of young school-age children, but now it often affects teenagers and young adults. In 1995, 39% of people affected in the United States were 20 years and older.

    Mumps

    Mumps is mainly a disease of young children, but approximately 15 percent of reported cases occur among teens and adults. The Mumps vaccine is routinely administered as part of the MMR shot. Mumps vaccine is recommended for children, teens and susceptible.

    Rubella

    Rubella (German Measles) is especially problematic for pregnant women. If a pregnant woman gets Rubella, especially during the first three months of pregnancy, she may miscarry; her baby may be born with birth defects, or even die. As many as twelve million women of childbearing age are unprotected from Rubella.

    Symptoms of Measles, Mumps and Rubella

    Measles can cause a rash, cough, and fever. Even a mild case of the Measles can cause you to feel miserable, and be bedridden for 7 to 10 days. You can develop complications including: severe diarrhea, ear infections, pneumonia, seizures, encephalitis (infection of the brain), and death. A pregnant woman who contracts Measles is at increased risk for miscarriage or premature labor.

    Mumps causes fever, headache, and swollen glands under the jaw. Pregnant women may be at risk for spontaneous abortions if they contract Mumps. It can also lead to: hearing loss, encephalitis (infection of the brain), meningitis (infection of the spinal cord coverings), and men can experience painful, swollen testicles. Rare complications include arthritis, kidney and pancreas problems, deafness, and inflammation of the thyroid gland and breasts. Although Mumps rarely leads to death, adults are at greater risk than children of dying from the disease.

    Rubella can include an itchy rash, muscle pain, low-grade fever, swollen glands, and arthritis. Up to 10% of young adults are susceptible to the Rubella virus.

    The Spread of Measles, Mumps and Rubella

    Measles, Mumps and Rubella are highly contagious viruses spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or comes into contact with infected people or articles they have used. These viruses are contagious from five to nine days before the onset of symptoms.

    Measles, Mumps and Rubella Vaccine

    Anyone who has not completed the immunization series for Measles, Mumps and Rubella should do so. Two doses of MMR vaccine generally provide lifelong protection and are required for entrance into post-secondary institutions in at least 29 states.

    • If you were born before 1940 you are exempt from mandatory Measles immunizations due to presumed exposure and therefore immunity.
    • If you were born between 1940 and 1957 you only need proof of one immunization after your first birthday.
    • If you were born after 1957 you need one immunization after your first birthday, and a second at least one month later.
       

    The MMR vaccine is very safe. Occasionally, after injection mild reactions such as a fever, a rash or swelling of the salivary glands in the cheeks and neck area may occur. More serious adverse reactions are rare. The benefits of being vaccinated far outweigh the risks.

    MORE INFORMATION

    • Visit the Web site of the Immunization Action Coalition to view their "Vaccine Information Statements" for further information about Measles, Mumps, Rubella vaccine.
  • SPINAL MENINGITIS

    The Meningococcal vaccine is to prevent bacterial meningitis, a rare but potentially life-threatening disease. Meningitis, commonly referred to as spinal meningitis, is an infection spread through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions (i.e. coughing and kissing) but is not as contagious as the common cold or flu.

    Recent evidence from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found that students living in dormitory halls are at a slightly higher risk than other persons their age. Data indicates that certain social behaviors such as exposure to passive and active smoke, bar patronage, and excessive alcohol consumption may place students at increased risk for this disease. The American College Health Association is recommending that college freshmen who plan to reside in dormitory halls consider receiving the vaccine.

    Every year approximately 3,000 cases of the disease occur in the United States . If detected early, the disease can be treated effectively with antibiotics. Symptoms may often mimic those of the flu including high fever, severe headaches, stiff neck, lethargy and may also include nausea and vomiting.

    MORE INFORMATION

    Student Health Services does not provide the Meningococcal vaccine, but will provide community referrals.

  • TETANUS, DIPHTHERIA, AND PERTUSSIS (Tdap)

    Tetanus

    Tetanus is a very serious disease that affects the nervous system and is commonly known as lockjaw. First symptoms of Tetanus are headache and muscular stiffness in the jaw and neck, followed by difficulty in swallowing, rigidity of abdominal muscles, spasms, sweating, and fever.

    Diptheria

    Diphtheria is an acute bacterial disease that usually affects the tonsils, throat, nose and/or skin. It can make a person unable to breathe, cause paralysis or heart failure. Symptoms of diphtheria include: sore throat, fever, and swollen neck glands. As the disease progresses, a membrane is formed in the throat that blocks breathing which may cause death. One out of every 10 people infected with Diphtheria die.

    Pertussis

    Pertussis is an acute bacterial disease that affects the respiratory system. It causes a mild to severe prolonged cough. Symptoms of pertussis include: spasmodic cough and inspiratory whoop. Complications of pertussis infection can include vomiting, sinusitis, pneumonia, and respiratory complications.

    The Spread of Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis

    Tetanus is caused by bacteria that enter the body through a break in the skin. It can get in through even a tiny pinprick or scratch, but prefers deep puncture wounds or cuts like those made by nails or knives. Symptoms begin occurring usually eight days after the infection, but may range from three days to three weeks. About 40 percent of people who get Tetanus die. The germ is commonly found in soil, dust and manure and cannot be transmitted person to person.

    Diphtheria is caused by bacteria passed from one person to another in the droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or even laughs. It can also be spread by handling used tissue or by drinking from a glass used by an infected person.

    Pertussis is caused by a bacteria that passes from one person to another when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

    Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis Vaccine

    Adults should have a Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis shot once every 10 years to ensure protection. If you have not had at least three Tdap shots in your lifetime, or if you're not sure if you have, you will need to complete your basic series of three shots and follow up with booster doses every 10 years.

    MORE INFORMATION

  • TUBERCULOSIS (TB)

    Tuberculosis is an infectious disease, usually in the lungs, that is spread from person to person through the air. This can happen when people cough, sneeze, laugh or sing. TB can also affect other parts of the body, but much less often. It is possible to have TB and have few if any symptoms because it can lie dormant in the body for years before being activated.

    The Spread of TB

    Usually, TB is spread to others who are in close contact regularly over a period of time, such as: family members, roommates, coworkers, and friends. The best way to stay healthy is to have a test to check for TB once a year.

    About the TB Test

    The current method to test for exposure to TB is called the Mantoux test (PPD). The Mantoux test consists of injecting a very small amount (0.1ml) of an inactivated form of the germ just under the skin. You then return to the clinic to have the test read in 48-72 hours (or 2-3 days). A nurse will examine the site of injection for a reaction. If there is no redness or swelling (and you are not immunocompromised) the test is read as negative. If there is a swelling at the site larger than 10mm, it may mean that the test is positive and will require further evaluation.

    Potential Indications for the 2-Step Tuberculin Skin Test (TST)

    TB 2-Step testing is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as a baseline test for health care workers and other selected populations who have the possibility of exposure to tuberculosis as part of their student or work experience. TB 2-Step testing is done in order to get an accurate baseline TB test prior to contact with the public or patients that could have active TB.

    If a person has had previous unknown infection with tuberculosis and it has been more than a year since their last TB test, it is possible for their TB test to read negative even though they have been infected. This is due to the waning of the antibody response after infection. However, receiving the TB test will stimulate the antibodies and another test done shortly within a week or the first test will demonstrate the TB infection by being read as positive or reactive.

    What is the 4 visit 2-Step Tuberculin Skin Test(TST)?

    • (Visit 1) The 1st TEST is placed. You must return in 48-72 hours (2-3 days) for the test to be read. 
    • (Visit 2) The 1st TEST is read. If the test is negative, return to clinic in 1 -2 weeks for the second test placement.
    • (Visit 3) The 2nd TEST is placed. Return in 48-72 hours for the second TEST to be read.
    • (Visit 4) The 2nd TEST is read.
       

    Positive Reactions to a PPD and its Implications

    If you have a positive PPD it does not mean that you have Tuberculosis. A positive PPD means that your body's immune system recognizes the TB protein injected into your arm and is mounting an antibody response. This is why you have a raised red area at the site of injection. This reaction shows that you have been exposed to the germ that causes Tuberculosis. The exposure may be recent or may have occurred years ago. A positive test may, but does not indicate the presence of active Tuberculosis disease. Therefore, once you have had a positive skin test, you should thereafter receive a chest X-ray, or health clearance to demonstrate no active Tuberculosis.

    Some people immunized in countries with a high incidence of TB were given the BCG vaccine and may test positive as a result. However, even with a history of BCG vaccination, a positive test is still a positive test.

    DO NOT HAVE ANY MORE SKIN TESTS AFTER YOU HAVE TESTED POSITIVE (>10-15mm). Whether you have an active disease or not, you will always test positive.

    Staff Tuberculosis Clearances

    SRJC staff and faculty may utilize Student Health Services clinical services to obtain their required work related tuberculosis clearance, at no cost to the employee. Clinical Staff members will need PPD placements in accordance with hospital facility guidance. Academic staff members who do not work in medical facilities are screened at hire and every 4 years. Recent changes in Ed Code allows for a Risk Assessment process. Results of the Risk Assessment determine whether a PPD test is needed. Completed Risk Assessments are forwarded to Human Resources for documentation.

    MORE INFORMATION

  • VARICELLA

    Varicella is more commonly known as Chicken Pox. It is generally considered to be a mild disease of children; however, 5% of reported cases occur in people over 20 years of age. Early symptoms may include: aching, irritability, tiredness, fever, and sore throat. An itchy, blister-like rash then appears which can develop into as many as 250-500 sores. The rash may even spread into the mouth or other internal parts of the body. Symptoms appear between 10 and 21 days after infection. Varicella in adults is often more severe and complications are 10 times more likely to occur for adults than children. The complications include pneumonia, bacterial infections and encephalitis (brain infection). Adults are 25 times more likely to die from varicella than children.

    The Spread of Varicella

    Varicella is highly contagious and spreads easily through the air by infected people when they sneeze or cough. The disease also spreads through contact with an infected person's Varicella sores. People who have never had Varicella can get infected just by being in the same room with someone who has the disease. Varicella is contagious 1-2 days before the rash appears.

    About "Shingles"

    People who have had Varicella may develop Shingles later in life. One in five Americans does develop Shingles. Shingles is caused by a reactivation of a viral infection with the same virus that produces Varicella and can be very painful!

    At Risk for Varicella

    Only people who have never had Varicella or only had a mild case are at risk for catching the disease.

    Varicella Vaccine

    Adults who have never had Varicella should consider vaccination. Because of the risk of complications in childhood cases of Varicella, and the risk of developing Shingles later in life, some parents are choosing to have their children vaccinated. Children under the age of 13 only need one injection. Those over the age of 13 need two injections 4 - 8 weeks apart. Many health care providers require a blood test before immunizing adults for Varicella to see if the vaccine is necessary.

    The vaccine has been proven safe and effective. The most common side effects are soreness at the site of injection, fever and/or a rash. In general, the benefits of being vaccinated far outweigh the risks.

    Student Health Services does not provide the Varicella vaccine, but will provide community referrals.

    MORE INFORMATION