Immunizations Policy

COVID-19

As of April 13th, 2023, PSC no longer requires students to be vaccinated against COVID-19.  However, the college does strongly recommend following CDC guidelines with regard to COVID-19 vaccinations. 

 

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The following are required by New York State for attendance at a post-secondary institution in accordance with PHL Section 2165 (measles, mumps and rubella), PHL Section 2167 (meningococcal disease), and Title 10 New York Codes, Rules and Regulations Subpart 66-2 (10 NYCRR Subpart 66-2). (Proof of NYS required immunization is required by all students who are taking 6 or more credits (semester hour)).

  • Proof of vaccination or immunity to Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR)
  • Meningitis Vaccination (ACWY or MenB) within 5 years prior to enrollment
      • Don’t have a meningitis vaccination? Read Meningitis Fact Sheet and complete the Meningitis Response form; located in the Health Portal.
  • Proof of Hepatitis A vaccination series for the following programs:
      • Baking and Pastry Arts | BAKA
      • Baking Arts and Services Management | BASM
      • Baking (A.A.S.) | BAKG

State-mandated Exemptions:

Per NYS Public Health Law Section 2165, Students attending a NYS Secondary College or University have the right to request medical and religious exemptions to immunizations. 

To apply for a medical or religious exemption to state-required immunizations, please submit one of the following; 

  1. Medical exemption: A letter must be written by a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner and state that a valid contraindication to vaccination exists. The exemption must specify which immunizations are contraindicated and why. 
  2. Religious exemption: There must be a written and signed statement from the student (parent or guardian of students less than 18 years of age) that they object to immunization due to their religious beliefs. 

For more information please visit NYSDOH secondary institutions requirementspage. 

Recommended Immunizations: 

Hepatitis A – A potentially serious liver disease usually spread through close contact with an infected person or when a person unknowingly ingests the virus from objects, food, or drinks contaminated by small amounts of stool from an infected person. This two-shot series is required for students in the following programs: recreation, adventure travel and ecotourism; culinary; baking; food and beverage; and hotel, resort and tourism management. Available at our clinic for $95. 

Hepatitis B –Hepatitis B is a liver disease that can cause mild illness lasting a few weeks, or it can lead to a serious, lifelong illness. 

HPV – can prevent infection of some types of human papillomavirus. HPV infections can cause certain types of cancers including cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers in women, penile cancer in men; and anal cancers in both men and women. HPV vaccine is routinely recommended for adolescents at 11 or 12 years of age to ensure they are protected before they are exposed to the virus.  HPV vaccine may be given beginning at age 9 years, and as late as age 45 years. Most people older than 26 years will not benefit from HPV vaccination. 

Meningococcal meningitis – Meningococcal disease refers to any illness caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis. These illnesses can be severe and include infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and bloodstream. NY State requires either immunization within the past 5 years or the acknowledgement of a meningococcal meningitis fact sheet.  

Polio – can prevent polio (poliomyelitis), a disabling and life-threatening disease caused by poliovirus, which can infect a person’s spinal cord, leading to paralysis. 

Seasonal Influenza – Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Offered on campus every flu season (October-April) 

TdapThe Tdap vaccine can prevent tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis Diphtheria and pertussis spread from person to person. Tetanus enters the body through cuts or wounds. This childhood series requires a booster every 10 years.  

Varicella – Prevents chickenpox, a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) that can cause an itchy, blister-like rash.  

COVID 19 Vaccines are effective at protecting people from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized, and dying. Vaccination remains the safest strategy for avoiding hospitalizations, long-term health outcomes, and death.

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Contact Us »

Heather Allard
Student Wellness Coordinator
518-327-6319
healthservices@paulsmiths.edu

Christine Brennan, RN BSN
Director of Health Services
518-327-6349