FORT WORTH, Texas (Oct. 28, 2011)
Tarrant County College students who are uninsured can now get a state–required meningococcal meningitis vaccination for a low cost at six Tarrant County Public Health Centers. Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord, also called meninges.
Vaccinations are available for $25, but typically can cost as much as $160 per shot. These public centers do not accept insurance. Students should call before going to the location to find out what they need to bring and to ensure vaccinations are available at that location.
TCC officials have been attempting to identify affordable ways for students to comply with a law passed by the 82nd Texas Legislature earlier this year. In addition, college officials are continuing to try to locate resources for insured students and to determine if the meningitis vaccination will be covered with or without a co-payment.
Senate Bill 1107 expands the vaccination requirement to students attending public and private colleges and universities regardless of whether they reside in campus or off-campus housing. The law requires students under the age of 30 enrolling in credit classes for the first time and those who have had a break in TCC enrollment of at least one fall or spring semester, to show proof of a current meningococcal meningitis vaccination.
Continuing Education (noncredit) students are exempt from this requirement with the exception of any program with more than 360 hours. Students taking only Distance Learning classes also are exempt.
The vaccination must have been administered within the five-year period immediately preceding and at least 10 days prior to the first semester enrolled or re-enrolled. The record must be provided to the TCC Registrar. Records may be submitted in person, faxed or mailed.
Additional information is available at www.tccd.edu/MCV4.
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