Immigration requires a booster MMR for my green card application. I was immunized at age 12 with MMR, so I don't think a booster is necessary. I have concerns about the shot, as I have just recovered from breast cancer and have had meningitis three times in the last six years. The MMR has also had some bad press recently. Do I have reason for my concern?

A.

MMR is a triple vaccine that vaccinates for measles, mumps and rubella, three contagious viral diseases. One dose of mumps and rubella vaccines provides life long immunity to these diseases. Measles vaccine is given in two doses to increase antibody levels in those who have a minimal response to the first dose and to revaccinate those who fail to respond to the first dose. People who were vaccinated before 1968 and/or received a killed virus vaccine usually have little or no immunity to measles and need to be revaccinated as well.

Antibody levels to all three viruses/vaccines can be determined with a blood test. Adequate levels of antibodies provides evidence of immunity. Low levels of antibodies indicate the need for revaccination. All three vaccines can be given singly as well as in the combined MMR vaccine.

Vaccination with any of three vaccines is contraindicated in people who are severely allergic to a vaccine component, specifically eggs, gelatin and the antibiotic, neomycin. They are also contraindicated in pregnancy and in those with impaired immune systems from leukemia, lymphoma, generalized malignancy, immune deficiency disease and immunosuppressive therapy. Also, vaccination should be postponed in anyone suffering from moderate to severe illness until the illness resolves.

Your physician can determine your antibody levels and whether any of your health problems are a contraindication to receiving any of the vaccines. Laboratory documentation of immunity and/or a physician's statement that the vaccines are contraindicated may be sufficient for your immigration application.

For more on Vaccination Click Here >>

To search The Eclectic Physician Catalog of Nutritional Supplements for keywords relating to Vaccination - vaccination, mmr, measles, mumps, rubella
Click Here >>

Return to Q&A index

* The information presented in this web site is intended to inform and educate. It is not intended replace a qualified medical practitioner to diagnose or treat medical conditions.