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Bacterial meningitis immunization is required for admittance for new students this spring.

Have you had your shot?

Students attending Panola College this spring, who did not attend in fall 2011, are required to show proof of having the bacterial meningitis immunization. This policy applies to all new and re-entry students. A re-entry student is one who did not attend Panola College in fall 2011.

"If they have been enrolled at another college during Fall 2011, they may attend Panola in spring, as long as they can show a transcript from the other college," says Jeremy Dorman, Panola College Registrar.

Students must show a document with the month, day and year of the vaccination, stamped by a physician or health clinic.

The Texas Department of State Health Services has a limited supply of the immunizations and will immunize students for $20. Students are encouraged to call ahead to 903-693-9322 to ensure that the nurse will be available. The office is at 1412 S. Adams, phone 903-693-9322.

CVS Pharmacy will give the shot for walk-ins for a copay of $40 for those with insurance, and $139.99 for those without insurance.

Students should take a copy of their immunization records with them when they go for the shot to make sure they haven't already had it, according to a spokesperson for the Texas Department of State Health Services.

High demand for the immunization has caused supply shortages around the state.

Bacterial meningitis is the more serious form of meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. High fever, headache, and stiff neck are common symptoms of meningitis. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, discomfort looking into bright lights, confusion and sleepiness.

Students who cannot show proof of immunization will not be allowed to sit in face-to-face classes until they have had the shot. Students taking only online courses are not required to have the shot. Dual credit high school students are also not required to have the immunization.

For more information, contact the Student Success Center at Panola College.