Still, Harvard's price was higher than those at several other universities. Of 10 schools contacted, only the University of California-Los Angeles charged more.

Dartmouth had the lowest price tag, and the college takes an active stance in preventing the spread of the disease. Even before the student died of meningitis last June, Dartmouth had encouraged students to get the vaccination.

"We've actually recommended at Dartmouth that people get the vaccine," Turco said. "We've been sending out recommendations for the past three years."

Turco said there is no reason for students not to pay for the vaccine, even if the disease is rare.

"I think if you look at the cost of an education at Harvard or Dartmouth, $40 is not an unreasonable cost for the student or family to reduce [the risk]," Turco said.

"I vaccinated my three kids," he added. "And I personally slept better at night."

Turco said he did not agree with the criticism over the cost-effectiveness of the vaccine, noting that the very fact that the vaccine reduces the risk of meningitis justifies students getting it.