Immunizations

It is required of all admitted students born after 1956 to document their immune status for measles and rubella. Proof of two doses of measles vaccine or of the presence of an immune antibody titer against measles is required by South Dakota law. Additionally, meningococcal meningitis is a rare but serious disease that is life-threatening. It can strike without warning and progress quickly. Therefore, we highly recommend that students receive the shot series for Meningitis and Meningitis B.

Have you provided the immunization documentation as required? If not, please fax your proof of immunity (shot records/titer information) to Admissions. If you have questions, please contact the Admissions Office at 605.642.6343.

Should you need additional immunizations, we recommend you speak to your health care provider or your local pharmacist for the necessary vaccinations. If you have questions about immunizations you can call Student Health Services at 605.642.6520 when classes are in session during the fall and spring semesters.

Suggested Supplies

As you prepare for your new adventure as a BHSU student, here are some suggested supplies you may want to consider:

• Cold pack
• Heating pad
• Small humidifier
• Nail clippers
• Scissors
• Thermometer
• Tweezers and needle
• Band-Aids
• Cotton balls
• Safety pins
• Pain relievers (i.e. Advil, Tylenol)
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Eye drops/wash
• Antibiotic cream
• Anti-fungal cream
• Sewing kit
• Antacids
• Rubbing alcohol
• Large pad bandages
• Athletic tape
• Antihistamines
• OTC cold medications

What is Student Health Services?

When you are feeling under the weather or need health care advice, Student Health Services is the place to come. A Nurse Practitioner or Physician's Assistant is available 35 hours a week to address your medical concerns. Through your fees, the university attempts to offer the best care possible. The Health Services office is open while classes are in session. Remember to bring your BUZZ card for student status verification.

To make an appointment: Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. - noon and 1-5 p.m.
Phone: 605.642.6520
--services are provided on a walk-in basis, but appointments are recommended.

What services do we provide?

• Initial intervention for the care of acute common
  medical conditions such as, but not limited to:
  • Colds
  • Depression & Anxiety Screening
  • Ear infections
  • Strep throat
  • Uncomplicated flu cases
  • STD diagnosis
  • Sports injuries
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Birth control, wellness, weight loss, headaches, ect.
  • Pregnancy tests
• Routine physical exams for work and student teaching, including pap smears
• Allergy injections (student provides serum)
• Unlimited visits with the medical staff
• Health Education seminars relevant to college students
• Administering and record-keeping for immunization requirements including MMR's, Tetanus, TB, Hepatitis, Flu shots, Chickenpox, and Meningitis. (Initial records at Admissions)

Student Health Services is located in the Student Union, room 006.

Athletic Physical Form

Recommendations regarding influenza

• Pandemic Flu Plan in place and ready to use
  • Symptomatic students are asked to self-isolate (either by going home or staying home) at least 24 hours after they no longer have symptoms.
  • On-campus roommates of symptomatic students may be asked to temporarily relocate
  • On-campus symptomatic students may receive sick trays from dining services
  • Contact your health care provider or Student Health Services with your specific questions
  • Any student with symptoms of influenza (fever >100.4, cough, sore throat, etc) is advised to call or visit the BHSU Student Health Services at 605.642.6520 for instructions and treatment.

What can I do to protect myself from catching influenza?

• The main route of transmission of the influenza virus seems to be via droplets that are expelled by speaking, sneezing, or coughing.
• You can prevent getting infected by avoiding close contact with people who show influenza-like symptoms (trying to maintain a distance of about three feet if possible) and taking the following measures:
  • avoid touching your mouth and nose;
  • clean hands thoroughly with soap and water, or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub on a regular basis (especially if touching the mouth and nose, or surfaces that are potentially contaminated);
  • avoid close contact with people who might be ill;
  • reduce the time spent in crowded settings if possible;
  • improve airflow in your living space by opening windows;
  • practice good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.

Flu kit items:

• Fever reducing medications like Tylenol or Ibuprofen
• Cough syrup
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Sore throat lozenges
• Vitamins
• Gatorade
• Thermometer
• Kleenex
• Hand sanitizing gel
• Humidifier
• Insurance and prescription cards

Related links

• South Dakota Department of Health