Attention incoming New Jersey college freshmen: Meningococcal vaccine is required by law
In September 2004, a New Jersey state law took effect requiring new college students who would be living in campus dorms to receive the
meningococcal vaccine. This vaccine offers protection against some of the bacterial strains that cause meningitis and meningococcemia, both of which can lead to serious illness and even death.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, college freshmen living in dorms have a slightly increased risk of getting a meningococcal disease. Since the bacteria is spread through contact with infected saliva or respiratory secretions, the close living quarters of a dorm lead to the higher risk.