|  | Public Health Safety | Community

What Shots Do People Need When Applying for US Citizenship?

Thousands of immigrants are sworn in as naturalized citizens of the United States every year. Among the many requirements to become a U.S. citizen are a series of vaccinations that precede eligibility for a permanent visa. To receive a permanent visa or change to permanent legal resident status, immigrants are required to complete a form that documents and requires authentication of the immunization record.

  1. Measles, Mumps and Rubella

    • Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) are three highly contagious childhood diseases that were once responsible for thousands of ill children per year in the United States. Outbreaks were frequent and sometimes caused irreparable damage to children, including brain damage, sterility and, in the case of rubella, birth defects in pregnant mothers. Since the MMR vaccine became available in the late 1960s, the three diseases have been practically wiped out of the American population. The vaccine is a requirement for an immigrant's permanent legal status in the U.S. and subsequent naturalization.

    Polio

    • In 99 percent of cases, polio remains a flu-like infection that runs its course and causes no adverse effects. The other 1 percent of infections, however, are responsible for death, paralysis and limb deformities. The early 1900s saw many outbreaks of polio and thus began the race for a vaccination, which was finally introduced 1955. The polio vaccine has practically eradicated the disease from the United States and is a requirement for entering preschool in most states.

    Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis

    • Tetanus causes tightening and contracting of the skeletal muscles and full body spasms. Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that leads to respiratory problems and skin legions. Pertussis a bacterial infection that results in uncontrollable coughing, which is able to break ribs and prevent regular breathing. The tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis vaccine (Tdap) is given to adults to protect against the three diseases commonly known as lock jaw, diphtheria and whooping cough. In most states, school-aged children are required to get the vaccines.

    Hepatitis B

    • Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver. Severe cases of hepatitis B result in liver cancer, cirrhosis, liver failure and death. Many carriers of the virus are able to combat the infection and rarely have outbreaks or inflammation. Others with a chronic case have to take medication to prevent the virus from replicating to minimize damage to the liver. The vaccination is completed in three injections within a six-month period. It is used for both children and adults.

    Haemophilus Influenzae Type B

    • Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) protects against infections caused by the Haemophilus influenzae bacteria including meningitis, pneumonia and epiglottis. The infections cause serious upper respiratory complications in young children. Though the infections associated with the Hib vaccine are uncommon in children over the age of 5, the vaccination is still a requirement for immigrants.

Community - Related Articles