How to Find Out What Shots I Have Had

Your medical records still exist somewhere.

Many of the immunizations and shots that you have received probably were given to you when you were a kid. However, adults can get some shots, too, such as a tetanus shots after you step on a nail or get bitten by a strange animal. Even if you did not keep careful records of what shots you have had, that does not mean that someone hasn't been keeping track.

Instructions

1. Ask your parents or childhood caregiver if they have your shot records. Also, look through your own files. They could be in your records from when you were younger or even in a baby book.

2. Call your previous schools, including elementary schools, high school and college. They may still have your shot records on file.

3. Contact your previous doctors, especially pediatricians, if you had shots as a kid. Sometimes, the offices have the shot records on file.

4. Explore a medical record storage company. Sometimes they can provide you with the records for a fee.

5. Contact clinics and hospitals where you have been treated. They might also have your shot records on file.

6. Talk to your state immunization coordinator. If your state keeps medical records, including shots, in a registry, the coordinator can tell you how to access your records. Not all states have this service.

References

• Immunization Action Coalition: Tips for Finding Old Immunization Records