Vaccinations are an important part of the immigration process for people entering the United States. Vaccines help protect immigrants from serious and potentially deadly diseases, such as hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, polio, tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. Vaccines also reduce the chance of spreading these illnesses to the general population.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires that all immigrants receive certain vaccinations prior to entering the country. The vaccines required for immigration depend on the individual’s age, health status, and country of origin.
Generally, the following vaccines are required for immigrants entering the United States:
1. Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): This vaccine protects against three different diseases. It is required for all immigrants over the age of 1 year.
2. Varicella (Chickenpox): This vaccine is required for all immigrants over the age of 1 year.
3. Hepatitis A: This vaccine is required for all immigrants over the age of 2 years.
4. Hepatitis B: This vaccine is required for all immigrants over the age of 11 years.
5. Influenza (Flu): This vaccine is required for all immigrants over the age of 6 months.
6. Pneumococcal (PCV13): This vaccine is required for all immigrants over the age of 2 years.
7. Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (TDAP): This vaccine is required for all immigrants over the age of 11 years.
8. Polio: This vaccine is required for all immigrants over the age of 2 years.
Immigrants may also be required to receive other vaccines depending on their age, health status, and country of origin.
For example, certain countries may require vaccines for diseases such as yellow fever or typhoid. Additionally, some states may require additional vaccinations for school-age children.
Immigrants should consult with a doctor or health care provider before traveling to the United States to ensure they have received all necessary vaccinations.
Additionally, they should keep all vaccination records with them when traveling to prove they have met the requirements.
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