Immunizations

Required Immunizations

1. Mumps, Measles, and Rubella:
One of the following is required:

• Proof of two measles, mumps, rubella vaccines (MMR1 and MMR2). MMR1 must be given after your first birthday (it may be given up to 4 days early), and MMR 2 must be given at least 28 days after MMR1.
• A blood test showing immunity to measles, mumps and rubella.

2. Meningitis Response Form

• Must be completed and signed.

Immunization Exceptions

New York State permits ONLY the following exemptions from the MMR immunization requirement:
If you were born after January 1, 1957

• Students with a MEDICAL contraindication to a specific vaccine. Sufficient documentation must be submitted by the student's medical provider, stating the reason for the contraindication and an end date, if applicable.
• Students with a strong RELIGIOUS conviction against vaccination. To request this exemption, you are required to submit a signed statement that explains in your own words why you are requesting this exemption and describes the religious principles that guide your objection to immunization. Please also indicate whether you are opposed to all immunizations, and if not all, the religious basis that prohibits particular immunizations. If the student is under 18 at the time of admission, the form will need to be signed by the parent/guardian, and the student will need to resubmit the documentation once they are 18 years old. Bard College requires that this form be notarized by a notary public, and may require additional supporting documents. This request may need to be reviewed by the NYS Department of Health prior to approval.
• Health Service will notify you as to the approval or denial of your request. If the request is denied, the notification will include specific reasons for denial. You can appeal a denial to the NYS Dept of Health Immunization Program within 30 days.
• New York State law does not accept PHILOSOPHICAL waivers. Under Department of Health regulation 10 NYCRR, Section 66-1.3 (d), philosophical, scientific, political, or sociological objections to immunizations do not justify an exemption.

In the event of a measles, mumps, or rubella case on campus, students who are not immunized will be required to receive the necessary vaccine, if possible, or leave campus for a period of time determined by the incubation period of the particular disease at their own expense.