The UK's Department of Health has strict guidelines on the immunisation of Health Care Professionals. Since most medical degree programmes now involve early clinical contact it's advantageous to get the necessary injections before turning up at the start of the course.
The medical schools will advise potential students of which immunisations they will require before coming into contact with patients. The usual requirements are as follows:
The medical schools will advise potential students of which immunisations they will require before coming into contact with patients. The usual requirements are as follows:
- Proof of immunity against Hepatitis B or, if the immunisation process is unsatisfactory, proof of non-infectivity. The immunisation process involves three doses of vaccine over a period of about 6 months. A blood test will be required shortly after the final dose to determine whether immunisation has been successful. The test will either need to show the presence of Hepatitis B surface antibody or, if insufficient antibody is produced, that you are negative for Hepatitis B surface antigen and Hepatitis B e antigen.
- Proof of immunity against diptheria, polio and tetanus. This is achieved by a combined vaccine usually administered every 10 years.
- Proof of immunity against measles, mumps and rubella. Again, this is achieved by a combined vaccine usually given in childhood.
- Proof of immunity against tuberculosis. This is achieved by the BCG vaccine, usually given in early adolescence.
- Proof of immunity against chicken pox. If you've had it in childhood, as most people have, then you're immune. If you haven't had chicken pox you should have the varicella vaccine.
It saves a lot of hassle if you have completed these courses of treatment before turning up at medical school, although it is usually possible to catch up once you're there if need be. Remember to take any evidence you have relating to your immunisations.
