In 1999, prompted by newly updated federal recommendations for college-age immunizations, the University Physician's Office began a program to educate students about vaccine-preventable illness, encourage vaccination, and track students' immunization history.
History
During the inaugural year all incoming MSU freshmen were sent a paper Student Immunization Self-Report 2000 form. Although they technically "required" to return the form, there was no penalty for failure to comply. It has always been our policy to accept student information without a doctor's signature or accompanying documentation. Since the vaccines are highly recommended, but not required, lying about vaccination history would hurt no one but the student.
The following year, 2001, saw the introduction of Web-based reporting. Paper forms were still available on request but students over age 18 were encouraged to go on-line for reporting.
Finally in 2002 the entire vaccination reporting process became paperless. All students, including minors, are now required to complete the on-line Immunization Self-Report Form at www.immunize.msu.edu and failure to do so will affect the student's ability to register and enroll for classes.
Making the System Work
The advantages of a Web-based reporting system are many, the most obvious being convenience. A student can fill out the form, check to see that the information has successfully been received and meet the requirement in literally two minutes or less. Paperless record-keeping also saves physical space, printing costs and processing times.
The most important aspect of this system is its effectiveness in action. If a student were to be diagnosed with chickenpox we can have the system identify classmates and dorm-mates who are susceptible to chickenpox and automatically send e-mails notifying them of possible exposure and need for vaccination. This process previously entailed physically identifying and notifying possible exposures via phone; considering the size of the MSU community this could take days if not weeks. Now, with the proper technology in place, the entire process takes about 20 minutes.
Education
An important component to our immunization project is to educate students about potential health hazards and encourage them to make their own health care decisions.
Educational materials have included bookmarks, television spots airing on the campus channel, and posters.
The "Take the Shot!" poster campaign, featuring MSU athletes, vaccine recommendations and reporting instructions, has become an annual event. Every fall two new posters appear to saturate the campus to educate incoming students. This year we will also be extending the concept to promote influenza vaccination.
Immunization Project links:
The Immunization Self-Report - The immunization reporting system homepage.
International Students - Learn about special requirements for international students.
Good Policies on Student Vaccination Can Inoculate Colleges Against Risk - An article by Dr. Beth Alexander, University Physician, detailing the ins and outs of college-level immunization policies.
