Immunization Information
Frequently Asked Questions
What immunizations are required for 2009-2010?
All full-time students (12 credits) and all full-time and part-time Health Science, and Early Childhood Education students must have proof of:
- One Tetanus-Diphtheria booster within the last 10 years
- One dose of Mumps vaccine
- One dose of Rubella vaccine (German Measles)
- Two doses of Measles vaccine (Red Measles)
- Three doses of Hepatitis "B" vaccine
- Early Childhood Education and Health Science Students have additional requirements
Must I get immunizations?
Massachusetts law 105CMR 220.600, outlines the requirements for college students. See www.mass.gov.
If you can prove that you had the above vaccines, you do not need to get them again. If you cannot prove that you had them, but you know you did, your doctor can do blood tests to prove immunity to measles, mumps, rubella and Hepatitis B, and these will also satisfy the requirements. However, there is no blood test to prove immunity to tetanus. There are certain medical reasons and religious reasons for not getting vaccinated and these will need to be documented.
Do people over a certain age not need proof of immunizations?
In the past, students of a certain age did not require proof. That has all changed. All full-time students (12 or more credit hours) and all full and part time Health Science and Early Childcare Education students, regardless of age, need to have proof of immunizations. Bloods tests to show immunity are also acceptable.
Where can I find proof of my vaccines?
- High school records (best source)
- Elementary school records
- Pediatrician
- Board of Health where you grew up
- Baby book (your parent or guardian may have one)
How long do you keep immunization records?
Paper records are kept for about 5 years. A record may be kept longer in the computer but it may not have all the dates you would need; it may only indicate that you have satisfied the requirements but may not show the date the immunization was received. You should keep a record of your own immunizations in a safe place.
Can I get a copy of my records?
Yes. You may come in to get a copy of your records (with proof of identity) or you can sign a release form that would allow us to fax or send them to another college Health Service or Health Care Provider.
Where could I receive a needed immunization?
Your own physician
Fall River City Hall in Rm. 431, Phone: 508-324-2410
Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 to 11:00 am. and 1:00 to 2:30 pm.
$5 per immunization for residents, $15 for non-residents
Tuberculosis testing on Tuesdays ($10 for residents, $15 for non-residents)
New Bedford Immunization Clinic
213 Purchase Street, Phone: 508-991-6284
Monday and Friday, 1:00 to 3:30pm
$5 per immunization for residents, $15 for non-residents
IMPORTANT! Students who do not complete this requirement will be placed on HOLD for future registrations and transcripts.
The American College Health Association recommends that ALL students, full and part-time, entering college have these immunizations as well as discuss with their health care provider and others that may be recommended.
Do I have to have a physical examination completed within the last year by my physician to attend Bristol Community College?
Only students accepted in Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Medical Assisting, Therapeutic Massage, Healthcare Information, Complimentary Healthcare, Early Childhood Education, Occupational Therapy, Clinical Lab Science, and Phlebotomy must provide a completed physical examination form. This form should be given to you by the director of your program. If you do not receive one, call Health Services.