Frequently Asked Immunization Questions

Q.When and where do I send my Immunization Record once it has been completed?

A. The Immunization Record must be submitted to Student Health Services by October 1 for fall entrance or March 1 spring entrance.

All forms can be:

MAILED TO
George Mason University
Student Health Services
4400 University Drive, MS 2D3
Fairfax, VA 22030-4444

-OR-

FAXED TO
703.993.4053

-OR-

DROPPED OFF AT
Student Union 1, Room 214

Q. When should the Immunization Record be submitted?
A. The Immunization Record should be completed and submitted to Student Health Services by October 1 for fall entrance or March 1 for spring entrance.

Q. Must the Immunization Record be signed by a Doctor?
A. The Immunization Record must be signed by a licensed health care provider (MD, NP, RN, LPN) if the information has been transcribed and is not being accompanied by any medical records.

Q. Is the hepatitis B vaccine required?
A. Yes, according to Virginia State Law, students must either be immunized or sign a waiver indicating that they do not wish to be vaccinated against the disease. A blood test indicating positive immunity is also acceptable. Students must complete a series of 3 injections before they are considered completely immune to hepatitis B. The first dose can be given at any time. Once the first dose is received, the second dose must be given at least 1 month thereafter. The third dose must be given 6 months after the first. If students are not able to complete the series before the end of their first semester, they must sign the waiver. Signing the waiver does not mean you cannot be vaccinated against hepatitis B in the future.

Q. Is the Meningitis (Meningococcal) vaccine required?
A. Yes, according to Virginia State Law, students must either be immunized or sign a waiver indicating that they do not wish to be vaccinated against the disease.

Q. My Tetanus and Diphtheria vaccinations are outdated, can I still register?
A. You will be unable to register without an up-to-date tetanus and diphtheria booster. The booster must be administered every 10 years. Students receiving their decennial booster must receive Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis). Both vaccines are readily available at Student Health Services at a minimal fee. Walk-in immunization clinics are held: Mondays 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. and Wednesdays 1:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

Q. I don’t have any immunization records, what should I do?
A. If you are sure that you have been vaccinated against the measles, mumps, and rubella you can have titers drawn. A sample of your blood will be tested to determine the status of your immunity. If you do not have documentation proving that you have been vaccinated against tetanus and diphtheria you will have to be re-immunized. If you do not have documentation to support that you have been immunized against hepatitis B or meningitis you may either be re-immunized or sign a waiver stating you do not wish to do so.

Q. I had Measles, Mumps or Rubella as a child, is this sufficient?
A. A history of disease is NOTaccepted.

Q. Where can I find a copy of my records?
A. Check with your parents to see whether they have a copy of your immunization records available. A copy of your records may also be found at your previous place of education (High School, University, College), excluding community college. Records may also be found at your doctor’s office. Please keep in mind that these records may not be completely up to date.

Q. I had the Measles, Mumps and Rubella Vaccinations as a child, are they still valid?
A. Yes, these are childhood immunizations and usually provide lifelong immunity, provided it was administered after 1967 and after your first birthday. Please note that all students must show documentation that they have had two doses of the Measles, two doses of the Mumps and two doses of the Rubella vaccine.

Q. I am a citizen of the United Stated of America, must I submit an Immunization Record?
A. Yes, all students must submit an Immunization Record.