How can I get old shot records from a pediatrician who has been deceased for 20+ years?

Question

It's been 27 years since I was in college, and now I'm going back. They are demanding my shot records. My pediatrician has been deceased for 20+ years, and I don't have a clue who took over his practice, if anyone. The Health Department said they can't help me, since my shots weren't given there. Everyone keeps telling me that I can get the shots (MMR)again. I'd have to get one shot, then one month later, get a booster shot, and prove to the college that I got it done. The other alternative (which is what I'm probably going to choose) is to go to my family doctor (or lab) and get a blood test, showing immunity (which will prove I got the immunizations when I was a child). Here's my question.... Why is they so adamant about this? No one can (or will) answer this question for me. I've been just fine, and don't want to be forced to take these shots. My daughter was also required the same thing, but it was simple, because I have her shot records. My parents are deceased

Answer 1

The college is just trying to protect you from catching these old diseases from someone who might be attending the college who has diplomatic immunity or questionable records and may be carrying these diseases. They do not want an outbreak on their campus or the lawsuits that might ensue after an outbreak.

Answer 2

It isn't the school's fault. They have to protect themselves from the idiot who will sue them, looking for the "deep pockets" should a person be exposed to illness. So school's have to make certain that everyone attending has current immunizations.

Answer 3

Ask some of the older medical practices in your area. Maybe they remember who took over your doctor's practice. You may have to ask several practices before you find someone who remembers.