Darn, I Think I'm Stuck

[Snag 57]

I'm an Australian, so I've been immunized with all mandatory shots except two, as provided on the list by the USCIS. My doctor gave me my immunization record number, and told me to call the healthcare system, quote the number, and they'd tell me what I needed to know. The thing is, I was born well before they began to make the immunization database that they currently have in Australia, so my records aren't available, and didn't make the cut. The records would contain the immunizations I've had since birth well up until my last one (which I believe was when I was 14).

I really, really don't wish to be immunized again (my body goes into shock and I pass out per every needle I have. D'oh!), but if it's the only way, then I suppose I don't have much choice. But, before I toss in the towel, is there some way to prove I've been vaccinated? Would a letter from my doctor be suffice, or do I have to give the exact records (which seem impossible for me to access, as they are not on the database - scary to think my records are just floating around somewhere)? Or, does the USCIS know that Australians have been vaccinated against the majority of the list? (Okay, I think that's just crazy talk, and I am, in fact, going crazy).

Thanks, guys.

[Bullan 0]

I had to take most of the vaccinations again and I'm also from one of the most developed countries in the world, like Australia. So they don't recognize that - without proof that you have the vaccinations, they'll suggest you do them again (by law you have to).

They're not bad for you but pricey. Good luck!

[Penguin_ie 5,986]

You have a few options- if your doctor from childhood is still practising, or another took over his clinic, contact them, they may be able to porvide you with a letter with dates etc.

A lot of the vaccinations can be proved by tither test, but that may be expensive, and would also involve needles.

[Inky 1,110]

Have your blood drawn and tested for immunity for the vaccinations they want. It would potentially save you a lot of extra jabs you don't need.

[Harpa Timsah 13,258]

They can test your blood for antibodies. Or the old office probably has paper records. Have them send a fax (remember those?)

Edited June 3, 2013 by Harpa Timsah

[imjustagirl 0]

For my I693 they didn't ask my vaccination history. They did the blood test and then told me that I will need one more shot because my blood didn't show that I have had this shot...

[stevie b 141]

I'm an Australian, so I've been immunized with all mandatory shots except two, as provided on the list by the USCIS. My doctor gave me my immunization record number, and told me to call the healthcare system, quote the number, and they'd tell me what I needed to know. The thing is, I was born well before they began to make the immunization database that they currently have in Australia, so my records aren't available, and didn't make the cut. The records would contain the immunizations I've had since birth well up until my last one (which I believe was when I was 14).

I really, really don't wish to be immunized again (my body goes into shock and I pass out per every needle I have. D'oh!), but if it's the only way, then I suppose I don't have much choice. But, before I toss in the towel, is there some way to prove I've been vaccinated? Would a letter from my doctor be suffice, or do I have to give the exact records (which seem impossible for me to access, as they are not on the database - scary to think my records are just floating around somewhere)? Or, does the USCIS know that Australians have been vaccinated against the majority of the list? (Okay, I think that's just crazy talk, and I am, in fact, going crazy).

Thanks, guys.

I would plan on a sore bum for a few days

[Harpa Timsah 13,258]

Shots go in your arm, not your behind?

[jajaju 33]

the physician in australia will do a test and see what your body needs. If you want reassurance just call the physician's office and ask these questions you've presented in OP. My sister moved to the states on work visa, and in her medical they tested her blood and there were some vaccines she had proof of having but had to have again, and some she'd never had that she had to get.

[Inky 1,110]

the physician in australia will do a test and see what your body needs. If you want reassurance just call the physician's office and ask these questions you've presented in OP. My sister moved to the states on work visa, and in her medical they tested her blood and there were some vaccines she had proof of having but had to have again, and some she'd never had that she had to get.

The poster is in the USA not Australia and it would be in his best interest to not leave the US while filing for adjustment of status here. The poster would have to see a doctor in the USA to have the issue fixed.

[Snag 57]

You have a few options- if your doctor from childhood is still practising, or another took over his clinic, contact them, they may be able to porvide you with a letter with dates etc.

A lot of the vaccinations can be proved by tither test, but that may be expensive, and would also involve needles.

Have your blood drawn and tested for immunity for the vaccinations they want. It would potentially save you a lot of extra jabs you don't need.

They can test your blood for antibodies. Or the old office probably has paper records. Have them send a fax (remember those?)

Great to know - and I think that's the best option, even if it is a little pricey. Found my old school vaccinations, which covers Hep B and Pertussis. And indeed, Harpa Timsah! I asked them to fax it yesterday. As for my infant vaccinations, no such luck. Thanks for the advice.

For my I693 they didn't ask my vaccination history. They did the blood test and then told me that I will need one more shot because my blood didn't show that I have had this shot...

Really? Interesting. Only part now is that I faint whenever a needle goes in my veins. Not a phobia, my body just seems to panic. Oh, this is going to be fun!

I would plan on a sore bum for a few days

It's the arm, dude.

the physician in australia will do a test and see what your body needs. If you want reassurance just call the physician's office and ask these questions you've presented in OP. My sister moved to the states on work visa, and in her medical they tested her blood and there were some vaccines she had proof of having but had to have again, and some she'd never had that she had to get.

The poster is in the USA not Australia and it would be in his best interest to not leave the US while filing for adjustment of status here. The poster would have to see a doctor in the USA to have the issue fixed.

Inky's correct. I'm from Australia, on my B2 Visa in the US, married two months ago. AoS from the US.

In summation, thank you so much for all your help, everyone. Medical is scheduled for the 17th.