MMR versus TB

Dear Needles,

You are right, Columbia University requires all students taking 6 or more credits to document their immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). In fact, this requirement actually comes from New York State law, due to the public health concerns associated with these three communicable diseases. Although not as common as they once were (as a result of vaccinations), there are still outbreaks of these illnesses in the United States and so it is very important that all students be immunized. To document your immunity, submit the MMR form to Health Services at Columbia. This form can be downloaded from the Health Services at Columbia web site or obtained from the Immunization Office in 401 John Jay Hall. Students who are unsure of their immunization status may have a blood test at Primary Care Medical Services to test for immunity to these diseases, at a minimal cost.

In contrast, tuberculosis (TB) is relatively rare in the United States. And according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention, in order for a person to actually become infected with TB, they would have to spend an extended amount of time in an enclosed environment with a person with an active case of the disease, a cough, and numerous tuberculosis organisms in their lung secretions. The infection is most commonly transmitted through the air; there is little concern about casual contact, such as shared items or food. The only exception is unpasteurized milk or milk products — a concern usually associated with travel to other countries.

If you are planning to travel outside the United States, a consultation with the CU on the Road Travel Medicine Program can provide you with valuable information about the precautions you will need to take in your particular destination(s). The clinicians can also discuss and provide immunizations and other precautionary medical treatment as necessary.

There is a vaccine available for TB called the Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine. When used, it is primarily intended to reduce the risk of serious complications in infants and children as a result of TB infection. The CDC states that the BCG vaccine is not always effective at preventing TB in adults, and therefore it is not routinely recommended for them in the United States.

Students who come from countries in which TB is prevalent should be screened for tuberculosis with a skin test before coming to the University. Some students may be required to do so. You may want to talk about this recommendation with your own health care provider prior to attending school.

On campus, tuberculosis skin testing may be required by certain schools or programs. Students may make an appointment for TB skin testing or for other vaccination services online through Open Communicator or by calling x4-2284. For more information about immunization requirements and recommendations, visit the Health Services at Columbia web site's Immunization Requirements Info section.