Immunization Requirements
Public Health Law 2165 requires students to submit proof of immunization, or the absence of susceptibility to Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (German Measles). This PHL applies to all students born on or after January 1, 1957 who are taking 6 or more credit hours. Students born before January 1, 1957 do not need to prove absence of susceptibility. Submission of an immunization record containing 2 MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccines will meet this requirement, or the student may submit copies of blood work (titers) that confirm immunity to the 3 diseases.
Public Health Law 2167 states that all students must certify that they have received information about the
risk of meningitis, and that they are aware there is a vaccine that could reduce this
risk. Evidence of a meningitis vaccine within the last 5 years, or a signed waiver declining the vaccination satisfies this statute. A 30 day grace
period will be extended if the student indicates in writing that they will receive
the vaccine.
All students, regardless of credit hours, are encouraged to submit a Immunization Form with an official copy of their immunizations.
CONSEQUENCES OF NONCOMPLIANCE
Submission of vaccine documentation is required of all students who are taking 6 or more credit hours, and who have a physical presence on campus. Any student that remains non-compliant with PHL 2165 and 2167 following a 30-day grace period will not be permitted to attend classes and the student will have a hold placed on their account. When an adequate vaccine history and acknowledgment of meningitis education have been received in the Health Office, the hold will be removed, and the student will be permitted to return to campus. An account hold will prevent students from registering, making schedule changes, and obtaining transcripts and grades, and could result in graduation delays. In the event of a campus outbreak, all susceptible students will be barred from campus until public health officials declare it is safe to return, or when proof of vaccination has been determined.
If you are unable to obtain your immunization records, please contact the Health Office as soon as possible. Our nurses will work to help you resolve this situation so you can concentrate on your classes. If you do not have your vaccination records the following agencies may be able to assist you:
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County Health Department -
High school health office -
Military Records -
Previous College Health Office -
State immunization registry -
Pediatrician or MD office
EXEMPTIONs
Religious Exemption: Students who hold genuine religious beliefs against being immunized against measles, mumps, and rubella will be exempt from PHL 2165 after submitting a request that has been approved by the college. A Religious Exemption Request Form must be submitted to the Health Office to receive this exemption. Please read the instructions on the form carefully before submitting your request. In the event of a measles, mumps, or rubella outbreak, exempt students may be excluded from classes or campus.
Medical Exemption: If a licensed physician or nurse practitioner, or licensed midwife caring for a pregnant student certifies in writing that the student has a health condition which is a valid contraindication to receiving a specific vaccine, then a permanent or temporary exemption may be granted. This statement must specify those immunizations which may be detrimental and the length of time they may be detrimental. In the event of an outbreak, medically exempt individuals should be protected from exposure. This may include exclusion from classes or campus. To obtain this exemption a Medical Exemption Request Form must be submitted to the Health Office.
A meningitis response form must be submitted even if the student is granted an exemption to the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine.
The Covid-19 vaccine is not currently required, but students are strongly encouraged to stay up to date with covid vaccines and boosters.
Nursing students, Police Academy Cadets, and Athletes are required to submit additional health forms which include a physical and proof of additional vaccines. Contact the applicable department to request details and deadlines for submitting.
Nursing Department: 607-962-9241
Athletics: 607-962-9318, Director of Athletics, Isaac Bushey
Criminal Justice Department: 607-937-1307
More information on immunization laws from the New York State Department of Health