Which vaccine does ACIP recommend for college freshmen, aged 21 years or younger, living in dormitories?

The recommendation for college freshmen aged 21 years or younger living in dormitories to receive one dose of MCV4, which is the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, aligns with public health guidelines to prevent outbreaks of meningococcal disease in close living environments. College campuses, particularly dormitories, can facilitate the spread of infections among students due to their communal living arrangements.

Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can lead to meningitis and bloodstream infections, and younger adults are at a higher risk for infection. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) highlights the importance of vaccinating this population to diminish the risk of outbreaks and the potential serious outcomes associated with meningococcal infections.

While Tdap, MMR, and HPV vaccines are also important in the immunization schedule for adolescents and young adults, they do not specifically address the particular risks associated with living in dormitories. Tdap is important for pertussis protection, MMR for measles, mumps, and rubella, and HPV is crucial for preventing human papillomavirus-associated diseases. However, the direct recommendation for dormitory residents uniquely emphasizes the prevention of meningococcal disease, which is particularly relevant due to the communal living