The University of Massachusetts Amherst has specific immunization policies in place for all students, including graduate students, to ensure a safe and healthy environment on campus. While the overall goal of these policies is to protect the health and well-being of the entire university community, there are some differences in the requirements for graduate students compared to undergraduate students.
Immunization Requirements for Graduate Students
Graduate students at UMass Amherst are required to meet certain immunization requirements, which are outlined by the university’s University Health Services (UHS). These requirements are based on the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College Health Association (ACHA). The specific immunization requirements for graduate students include:
- Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY): Graduate students who are 25 years old or younger must provide proof of vaccination with MenACWY within the past 5 years.
- Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine: Graduate students must provide proof of vaccination with Tdap within the past 10 years.
- Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine: Graduate students must provide proof of two doses of MMR vaccine, given at least 28 days apart.
- Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine: Graduate students must provide proof of two doses of varicella vaccine, given at least 28 days apart, or a positive blood test showing immunity to varicella.
- Hepatitis B vaccine: Graduate students who are in health-related fields or who will be working in laboratories or other high-risk settings may be required to provide proof of vaccination with hepatitis B.
Differences in Immunization Policies for Graduate Students
While the immunization requirements for graduate students are similar to those for undergraduate students, there are some key differences. For example:
Age exemptions: Graduate students who are 26 years old or older are exempt from the meningococcal conjugate vaccine requirement, whereas undergraduate students are required to provide proof of vaccination regardless of age.
Health-related fields: Graduate students who are in health-related fields or who will be working in laboratories or other high-risk settings may be required to provide proof of additional vaccinations, such as hepatitis B or influenza vaccine.
International students: International graduate students may be required to provide proof of additional vaccinations, such as tuberculosis screening or proof of vaccination against diseases that are prevalent in their home country.
| Vaccine | Requirement for Graduate Students |
|---|---|
| Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY) | Required for students 25 years old or younger |
| Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine | Required, with proof of vaccination within the past 10 years |
| Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine | Required, with proof of two doses |
| Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine | Required, with proof of two doses or a positive blood test showing immunity |
| Hepatitis B vaccine | Required for students in health-related fields or high-risk settings |
In addition to meeting the immunization requirements, graduate students are also encouraged to take other steps to protect their health and well-being, such as getting regular check-ups, practicing good hygiene, and staying up-to-date on recommended vaccinations.
What are the consequences of not meeting the immunization requirements?
+Graduate students who do not meet the immunization requirements may be subject to registration holds, delays in course enrollment, or other university restrictions. In addition, students who are not up-to-date on recommended vaccinations may be at risk of contracting vaccine-preventable diseases.
How do I provide proof of vaccination?
+Graduate students can provide proof of vaccination by submitting official immunization records from their healthcare provider, a copy of their immunization record from their previous institution, or a certificate of vaccination from a licensed healthcare provider.
Are there any exemptions to the immunization requirements?
+Yes, there are exemptions to the immunization requirements. Graduate students who have a medical contraindication to vaccination or who have a sincere religious objection to vaccination may be eligible for an exemption. However, these exemptions must be approved by the university's University Health Services (UHS) and may require additional documentation.
In conclusion, the immunization policies for graduate students at UMass Amherst are designed to protect the health and well-being of the entire university community. By meeting the immunization requirements and taking other steps to protect their health, graduate students can help create a safe and healthy environment on campus.
