Boston University TB Test and Immunization Requirements for New Students
Boston University (BU) has specific immunization and testing requirements for all new students to safeguard the health of the university community and comply with Massachusetts law. These regulations apply to various student categories, including full-time students, Health Science students, and international students. It is crucial to understand and fulfill these requirements before the start of classes to avoid any delays or complications.
Who Needs to Comply?
University policy and Massachusetts Immunization Laws 105 CMR 220.00 and 105 CMR 220.600 mandate that all full-time undergraduate and graduate students under 30 years of age, as well as all full-time and part-time Health Sciences and International Students (including Visiting Scholars and Foreign Exchange Students), must be immunized. While these are the minimum requirements, Boston University recommends all students be immunized to prevent outbreaks.
Why are These Requirements in Place?
Massachusetts requires vaccination to protect the community and minimize the spread of preventable diseases. Boston University policy and Massachusetts law require additional immunizations and testing for clinical students. These requirements protect patients and the medical community at-large-whether working directly with patients or not. Proof of immunization compliance must be provided before the start of classes.
Required Immunizations and Tests
Here's a breakdown of the immunizations and tests required by Boston University:
- Tuberculosis (TB) testing: Details about the specific TB test requirements are outlined below.
- COVID-19 vaccination: Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is mandatory.
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR): Students must provide documentation of two doses of the MMR vaccine or blood tests showing immunity.
- Tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap): Documentation of Tdap vaccination is required.
- Varicella (Chickenpox): Students must provide documentation of two doses of the varicella vaccine given at least 4 weeks apart, a blood test showing immunity, or a date of disease certified by a healthcare provider. Two doses of varicella vaccine or positive varicella titer.
- Hepatitis B immunity: Documentation of Hepatitis B immunity is required.
- Meningitis ACWY: Students must have received one dose of the Meningitis ACWY vaccine on or after their 16th birthday.
- Flu vaccination: An annual influenza vaccine given on or after August 1 of the current academic year.
Tuberculosis (TB) Testing: Specific Requirements
Boston University requires TB testing for specific student populations. The exact requirements may vary, so it's essential to consult the official BU Student Health Services (SHS) website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Read also: Gridiron Showdown: Missouri vs. Boston College
How to Submit Your Documentation
To comply with these requirements, follow these steps:
- Gather your documents: Allow enough time to obtain your records and needed signatures. Contact your local or state health department.
- Complete the Form with help from your healthcare provider.
- Take a picture of your completed forms in a vertical orientation, or scan them to your computer.
- Submit your completed forms using Patient Connect. SHS will review the form and contact you within 2 to 3 business days with an update. You will receive either a completed form through Patient Connect or they will contact you about scheduling an appointment.
If you have not received all required vaccines, please submit your immunization documentation for the ones you have.
Submission Deadline
Please submit your immunization documentation one month before the start of your first semester.
Read also: ACC Showdown: Virginia Tech Battles Boston College
Read also: History of the BU Bridge
tags: #Boston #University #TB #test #requirements #for
