Meningitis Vaccine: Questions & Answers

Vaccinations

What constitutes a bacterial meningitis vaccine?

The vaccines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)—MCV4 and MPSV4—offer protection for Meningitis groups A, C, Y, and W-135. Currently, MCV4 and MPSV4 are the only vaccines that are accepted. Please visit the CDC website for additional information.

Note: Student must show proof of an initial meningitis vaccination or a booster dose during the five-year period prior to enrolling. 

Where can I get the bacterial meningitis vaccine?

Meningitis vaccinations are available from health care providers, county health departments, clinics, and pharmacies.

What if I don't know or remember whether I've been vaccinated?

Contact your health care provider for a medical opinion.

Exemptions

What if I object to the vaccination?

The state allows you to opt out of the meningitis vaccination for medical reasons or conscientious objection; however, you must submit the applicable exemption document or you will be dropped from your classes.

How do I submit an exemption form?

Students can submit a conscientious exemption form by logging into the Medicat student portal and uploading the form. 

If this is not possible, please visit an Admissions and Enrollment office at any campus. Conscientious objections can also be emailed to [email protected] along with your photo ID. Emailed documents will be processed within 2-3 business days.

In order to submit a medical exemption, you will need to obtain a form from your medical provider and bring it into any campus Admissions & Enrollment Office. To be accepted: 

  • The affidavit must be signed and dated by a physician who is registered and licensed to practice medicine in the United States. 
  • The affidavit must state the physician’s opinion that the vaccination would be injurious to your health and well-being. 
  • You must submit the original document. Copies are not accepted.

Can I submit an old version of the conscientious objection form?

Other exemption forms originating from the Texas Department of State Health Services will continue to be accepted. Forms downloaded from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board website will no longer be accepted.

Submitting Documents

What is an acceptable vaccination record?

Vaccination records must include the date (day/date/year) of the vaccination. Any of the following documents are accepted:

  • A document bearing the signature or stamp of the physician, a designee, or the public health personnel who administered the immunization.
  • An official immunization record generated by a state or local health authority.
  • An official immunization record from another school, including those from another state.

Where do I submit my vaccination record?

Submit vaccination records to Medicat: Details about submitting records to Medicat are listed on ACC’s Meningitis Compliance Steps Only students who have an active hold for the meningitis requirement will be able to access this site.

What if I need help setting up a Medicat account?

For issues with the Medicat student portal, please contact ACC Admissions and Enrollment.

How long will it take for my document to be approved?

Vaccination records and medical exemption affidavits require up to 5 business days after being received by Medicat. Conscientious objection certificates and Medical Exemption waivers submitted on campus are approved immediately. 

What happens if I don't submit the proper documents?

You will not remain enrolled in classes until proper documentation is received.

What if I'm dropped from class?

If you miss the deadline to comply, you will need to re-register for your classes. We cannot guarantee seats will still be available if you have to re-register.

Out-of-country Vaccinations

I'm an international student. Can I get vaccinated in my home country?

Obtaining the vaccination outside the U.S. can save you money; however, there are several forms of meningitis, so confirm you receive one of the following accepted vaccines:

  • Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine (MPSV4)
  • Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4)

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