Boise State University is joining a statewide campaign to immunize college students ages 18-30 against meningococcal meningitis. College students are at a higher-than-average risk of contracting the disease, which progresses so rapidly that it can lead to death within 24 hours from the onset of symptoms.
The Idaho Immunization Coalition and the Boise State School of Nursing Leadership and Community Health nursing students are sponsoring the following free meningitis vaccination clinics for college students (valid college ID required):
Tuesday, March 19
8 a.m.-5 p.m. at Keiser Hall
10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Student Union Johnson Room
Tuesday, April 2
8 a.m.-5 p.m. in the Student Union Johnson Room
Tuesday, April 9
Noon-6 p.m. at the Student Recreation Center
Additional clinics will be held in the summer and fall and will be held at other college campuses around the state. Current college ID’s are required to receive vaccines.
In addition, Rayna DuBose, a patient advocate from Virginia Tech who used to play Division 1 sports, will be on campus to share her story of “Winning the Game of Life.” DuBose will speak at 12:30 p.m. in the Student Union Simplot Ballroom. She will be available to meet and greet students, faculty and staff from 1:30-3 p.m. in the Student Union dining area. Learn more about her inspirational story on the Rayna DuBose website.
Many Idaho college students have not received this vaccination as it is not required for college admission. The Meningitis Campaign goal is to help prevent this disease. Additional clinics are being conducted by student nurses, faculty and staff at college campuses across Idaho. A current college ID is required to receive a vaccine.
If you have any questions or would like to help, contact Pam Strohfus at pamstrohfus@boisestate.edu or Elaine Huth at elainehuth@boisestate.edu.