Health Requirements at Iowa State University
Measles Requirement
Measles (rubeola) is a serious disease that is entirely preventable. Iowa State University takes necessary precautions to prevent the possibility of a measles epidemic occurring here by requiring that all new (including transfer and graduate) students show proof of immunization.
Your immunization records can be obtained from your health care provider's office. They may also be available from your high school or from other colleges or universities you have attended. Public health department records or military records may also have this information. Please note that all immunization dates and tests must include the month, day, and year. A photocopy of your immunization record is acceptable and may be attached to the immunization form.
If you need a measles immunization, the Thielen Student Health Center is located on the northeast corner of Union Drive and Sheldon Avenue, just west of Beyer Hall. New students are eligible for vaccinations and other services beginning the week prior to classes. Rubeola titers (blood test) and Tuberculosis (TB) skin tests are also available. *TB testing is required of international (non-U.S. citizen) students only and will be part of orientation procedures.* Please note that there are charges for health center services, although most are provided at a reduced rate. You may also visit your current health care provider for a measles vaccination and accompanying documentation.
Disease and Immunization Information
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Common childhood illnesses that, if experienced as an adult or during pregnancy, may have serious consequences. Two doses of the measles vaccine, one of which occurred in 1980 or later, are required for those born after December 31, 1956. MMR is a combination vaccination. Measles vaccine may also have been given alone or with Rubella (MR).
Hepatitis A: A viral infection resulting in inflammation of the liver, and often leading to temporary jaundice and flu-like symptoms. May be transmitted by food, sexual contact, or in daycare settings. A two-shot series (the second shot is given 6 months after the first) offers up to 10 years of protection. Advised for all travelers to less developed areas and for homosexual males.
Hepatitis B: A viral infection similar to Hepatitis A but with a risk of developing liver cancer and other complications. Generally transmitted through blood or bodily secretions, but may be food-borne as well. A three-shot series is given at 0, 1, and 6 months and gives 10 years or more of immunity. Recommended for all students. There is also a combined vaccine for hepatitis A and B, which is also a series of three shots providing protection against both viruses.
Meningococcal Meningitis: A relatively rare but sometimes rapidly fatal bacterial infection of the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and brain. Over 60% of cases are vaccine-preventable. A single shot offers approximately 3 years of protection. The American College Health Association (ACHA) recommends that college students consider vaccination to reduce their risk for this potentially fatal disease. For more information on Meningitis and the vaccine, click here.
Polio: After completion of the childhood series, a booster is recommended only for persons planning to travel to less developed areas.
Tetanus/diphtheria: After the initial childhood series, a booster is recommended every 10 years (5 years for those who travel abroad).
Pneumococcal pneumonia: A one-shot vaccination is advised for students with chronic respiratory, heart, or liver conditions, those with sickle cell disease, those over age 65, and those who have had their spleen removed or have compromised immune systems.
Varicella/Chickenpox: A two-shot series is recommended for those who have not had chickenpox.
What do I do with the Immunization Form?
Once you have completed this form and have obtained the necessary signatures or documentation (vaccination record, titer results, etc.), mail or deliver it to the Thielen Student Health Center, or bring the form to orientation and a representative from the TSHC will be there to collect it. Non-U.S. citizens should bring this form to orientation. If you have any questions about Iowa State University's immunization requirement, please call (515) 294-9535 or (515) 294-5801, option 6.
It is essential that all students turn in a completed form to avoid any registration delays.
Where do I find the forms?
All forms for both incoming new students and for existing students can be found by clicking on the "Forms" link to the left. Please make sure you are filling out the proper forms--new students should submit each of the three forms on the top of the "Forms" page."
Health History Forms
The health history form helps the Student Health Center to document chronic conditions, allergies to medications, and other medical history so that we can provide optimal care should a student ever need to use our services.
Once you have completed this form, mail or deliver it to the Student Health Center. Or bring the form to orientation and a representative from the Student Health Center will be there to collect it. Non-U.S. citizens should bring this form to orientation. If you have any questions please call (515) 294-9535 or (515) 294-5801, option 6.
