MMR Immunity (or not)

[bitter_betsy, BSN]

So I went and got my titers that I need for entrance into my program. The titer for MMR came back and shows that I am not immune to either Mumps or Rubella (Rubeola I'm good). I asked the school and they said as long as I had 2 shots at least 28 days apart (they were actually13 years apart) that I was good.

I understand that my documentation may meet their minimum requirement but SHOULD I get another vaccine? If so, just 1 or do I need 2 (again 28 days apart). I read something on the CDC website that recommended this for adults.

The other piece of the puzzle is one pice of my documentation states "requires all ABSN students to have MMR and Varicella Titers - regardless of immunization history". It does not say that they have to be positive.....

I'm not asking to meet the requirements of my program, I'm asking because I'm not immune and I'll be working in a hospital. For those of you with experience - would you recommend that I go get this done no matter what - for my own safety?

[angel0309, ADN, RN]

I was in the same situation, except it was only my Measles that was negative. I was technically still meeting their requirements because I had a 2 dose series when I was a baby, but I felt better about getting another booster. However, weirdly, we're required to get a Varicella booster if that titer comes back negative (which of course mine did) regardless of vaccination history... and of course, with my luck, my health insurance won't cover it since I had it when I was a baby...

Bottom line is, I'm getting everything that came back negative on my titers. Seriously, think about how much it would suck to get some communicable illness and be out of school for possibly weeks because you didn't get the booster. That's my logic, but do your research and make an informed decision.

[bitter_betsy, BSN]

That's exactly what I'm thinking, but I'm also afraid I'm gonna somehow screw something up. My orientation is on Friday and I plan to ask them then!!

[angel0309, ADN, RN]

That's exactly what I'm thinking, but I'm also afraid I'm gonna somehow screw something up. My orientation is on Friday and I plan to ask them then!!

Yes! If you're not sure, ask!! At my school, there is one person whose title is "Clinical Admissions Coordinator" and she is the go-to person for all Allied Health majors for the vaccinations, clinical ID badge forms, etc-basically everything you have to do to secure your seat in the program. Maybe your school has someone like that who you can reach out to?

[bitter_betsy, BSN]

I actually emailed them and they said I was fine - but I don't think I really am. We have to upload copies of everything and they have to clear us before we start classes. One statement specifically says we have to have titers for MMR and Varicella - because some clinical sites require them. I guess I did get the titer..... but I'm sure I will be flagged as soon as I get the go-ahead to upload. I'm guessing we will get all that access Friday.

[Horseshoe, BSN, RN]

I actually emailed them and they said I was fine - but I don't think I really am. We have to upload copies of everything and they have to clear us before we start classes. One statement specifically says we have to have titers for MMR and Varicella - because some clinical sites require them. I guess I did get the titer..... but I'm sure I will be flagged as soon as I get the go-ahead to upload. I'm guessing we will get all that access Friday.

Well, why do you suppose they require you to get the titer? Most likely it's because they want you to have immunity so that you neither get sick nor spread it to their vulnerable patients. I'd get the booster per recommendations from CDC or your physician.