Immunization records/medical clearance for Harvard clinical programs
I am very confused by their website and would appreciate guidance.
For Harvard's medical and dental programs they need us to fill in a medical immunization form: https://huhs.harvard.edu/patients-and-visitors/medical-records-and-immunizations/immunization-compliance/clinical-healthcare-programs/
On this, it says Tuberculosis Screening Since 4/1/2026 :
- If IGRA blood test, a copy of the laboratory report must be attached.
- No new tuberculosis screening required if: Prior skin test consistent with latent TB OR Prior positive IGRA blood test OR History of childhood BCG vaccination
I have received the BCG vaccination, so I thought i do not need to get myself tested for TB.
Yet, later down on the website it says: "The preferred tuberculosis screening is an interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) such as Quantiferon Gold Plus or T-Spot. If an IGRA is not possible, you will need 2-part tuberculin skin testing (PPDs) unless latent tuberculosis has previously been diagnosed. The 2nd PPD must be at least 7 days after the 1st. If you have a positive IGRA or a PPD interpreted as consistent with latent tuberculosis, you are required to submit a radiologist’s report of a chest X-ray."
The IGRA test is very expensive in my country. I emailed Harvard to confirm I don't need to do it because i have the BCG vaccine, but they said I still need to, even after I screenshotted the form.
Can I ask if anyone else in clinical programs was able to exempt themselves from the IGRA test/other TB screening on the basis of having had the BCG vaccine?