Immunization Information
What immunizations are required for 2011-2012? There are some new exceptions to these requirements and any questions should be directed to the nurses. Early Childhood Education and Health Science Students (NOT General Studies Health Science Option) have additional requirements and should call the nurses at Ext. 2232 before getting any vaccines
State law requires that all 12 credit students and all Health Science (except General Studies/Health Science Option) and Early Childhood Ed students furnish proof of immunization for Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Tetanus, Varicella and Hepatitis B. Health Sciences (NOT General Studies Health Science Option) & Early Childhood Ed students also need a physical exam on the BCC form and a Tuberculosis test before going to field placement
Must I get immunizations?
Massachusetts law 105CMR 220.600, outlines the requirements for college students. 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, varicella and Hepatitis B, and these will satisfy the requirements. There are certain medical reasons and religious reasons for not getting vaccinated and these will need to be documented.
Starting in Fall 2011, anyone born in the United States before 1957 does not have to provide proof of MMR unless they are in a Health Science program. Anyone born before 1980 does not have to provide proof of Varicella unless they are in a Health Science program.
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 mother may have one)
How long do you keep immunization records?
Paper records are kept for about 2 years. An electronic 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 or your own town Board of Health.
If you don't have insurance, you may go to:
Fall River Board of Health at Fall River City Hall
Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M. and 1:00 to 2:30 P.M.
$5.00 each vaccine for residents
$15 each vaccine for non-residents
Bring a picture I.D.New Bedford Immunization Clinic
181 Hillman St., Bldg. #9
Monday and Friday, 1:00 P.M. to 3:30 P.M.
$5 each vaccine for New Bedford residents
$15 each vaccine for non-residents
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 will be sent to you by the director of the program once you are accepted.
IMPORTANT! Students who do not complete this requirement will be placed on HOLD for future registrations and transcripts.