Final answer:
Prior to entering college, the CDC recommends the meningococcal vaccine for first-year students, especially those living in dorms, to prevent meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitidis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the importance of vaccinations for first-year college students, particularly those living in dorms. Among the recommended vaccines, the meningococcal vaccine is particularly noted for its role in preventing meningococcal meningitis, which is caused by Neisseria meningitidis. Campuses may experience outbreaks, hence, some colleges have vaccination requirements to protect students against this disease. While other immunizations like Hepatitis B, Influenza, and Tetanus are also vital, the meningococcal vaccination is the most pertinent prior to college due to the high-risk setting of shared living spaces.
The CDC recommends that adolescents receive a single dose of a quadrivalent vaccine protecting against serotypes A, C, W, and Y of Neisseria meningitidis at 11-12 years of age, followed by a booster at age 16. When entering college, this protection is especially pertinent due to increased risk of epidemic meningitis cases in close-quarter living situations, such as dormitories.