Immunization Requirements

The state of Tennessee requires students entering colleges, universities, and technical institutes with enrollment of greater than 200 students to provide proof of two (2) doses of Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine on or after the first birthday or proof of immunity to measles.

In compliance with this law, and in an attempt to maintain a safe and healthy campus environment, Tennessee State University requires that all entering students, born after 1957, furnish documented proof of having immunity to measles or having been immunized with two doses of MMR vaccine on or after the first birthday unless contraindicated because of pregnancy, allergy to a vaccine component, or other valid medical reason(s).

The law states that immunizations are not required if they conflict with the parents, or guardians, (or individuals over 18) religious tenets and practices, affirmed under the penalties of perjury. They are also not required if a qualified physician shall certify that administration of such immunization would be in any manner harmful to the child involved. (TCA Section 49-6-5001).

The Certificate of Immunization must be completed and signed by a licensed M.D. or D.O. and returned to the TSU Student Health services.

The State of Tennessee as of July 1, 2002 requires all new incoming students to obtain an inoculation for meningococcal or sign a waiver stating that they do not want the vaccine. This is an ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to vaccinations for meningococcal disease. Students with asthma, diabetes or other chronic health problems should make arrangements with their primary care provider to receive flu shots.

**As of Fall 2003 TSU will begin a Hepatitis awareness campaign. We urge students to get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B. They are serious, infectious diseases that affect the liver. College lifestyle factors increase the risk for the contraction of Hepatitis as well as other diseases transmitted through blood and body fluids. Many students share almost everything. They may eat/drink after one another, share personal items such as earrings, razors, even toothbrushes and have unprotected sex. Students and parents should contact their Primary Care Provider for this immunization.

VARICELLA (Chicken Pox) Policy

Effective July l, 2011 all higher education institutions of the Tennessee Board Regents will require proof of immunization against Varicella (chicken pox) of all students born after 01/01/1980.
For more information and to obtain immunization forms, contact Student Health Services.