PGME Immunization Requirements

New Learners

With a Negative TB test History: 

• A baseline two-step Mantoux Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) is required. 
  • Step 1: Implantation of the test and reading of the result 2–3 days later. 
  • Step 2: Implantation of the test and reading of the result 2–3 days later. 
• Recommended complete your two-step within 1-4 weeks

With a Positive TB test History:

• Submit documentation of your positive TB test result and a chest X-ray to the PGME Forms Site 
  • No further TB test will be required. 
• BCG vaccination is NOT a contraindication to receiving a TST. 
• A chest X-ray alone cannot be submitted as an alternative to the TST. 

Returning Learners

Annual 1-Step TB Skin Test Requirement

• If you have previously tested negative, and annual TB testing is required: 
  • A one-step Mantoux TST or an IGRA test. 
  • Must be valid through your training start date.  
• Returning learners must ensure their TB test is renewed before the next academic year if it expires.

Immunization & Proof of Immunity:

• Hepatitis B immunization consists of a series of 2–3 injections. 
• Lab evidence of immunity (Hepatitis B Antibody test) must be provided, including the date the titre was drawn. 

For Learners Who Are Non-Immune:

• If you do not have antibodies against HBsAb or have no prior history of immunization, you must: 
  • Be screened for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). 
  • If HBsAg is positive, additional screening for Hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg) is required. 
  • If HBsAg is negative, you must complete a second series of HBV immunization and complete an updated Hepatitis B Antibody test. 

Hepatitis B Carriers:

• Learners who test positive for HBV (Hepatitis B Virus) will have a conditional registration status until their case is reviewed by the Temerty Faculty of Medicine Expert Panel on Infection Control. 

Related Guidelines & Policies:

• Procedural Memorandum for Hepatitis B Carriers
• Blood Body Fluid Exposure Policy (Needlestick Injury Procedural Guideline) 
• SHEA Guideline for Hep B,C and HIV

Proof of Immunity:

• Documentation of at least 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, given at least 28 days apart, OR 
• Lab evidence of immunity (positive IgG antibody for Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)

Proof of Immunity:

• Documentation of 2 doses of the Varicella vaccine, given at least 28 days apart, OR 
• Lab evidence of immunity (positive IgG antibody for Varicella). 

Important Note:

• A reported childhood illness is NOT sufficient evidence of immunity for Varicella.

Diphtheria & Tetanus: 

• Valid for 10 years after immunization. 
• A booster shot is strongly recommended every 10 years. 

Acellular Pertussis (Tdap): 

• A single dose of Tdap is required as an adolescent or adult. 
• This can be taken at any time, without waiting 10 years between diphtheria/tetanus boosters. 

Polio: 

• Primary immunization against polio is sufficient.

Complete the Full Immunization Form (with instructions): 

• Signed by both you and a healthcare professional including clinic information. 
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella titres must be reported as either Positive, Negative, Reactive, or Non-Reactive. 
• If you previously tested positive for TB, submit to the PGME Forms Site your past positive TB test and a chest X-ray report (no further TB testing is required).

Submission Deadline: 

• You have 60 days from your training start date to submit all requirements. 

How to Submit:

• Upload your completed full immunization form (which includes all signatures) to the  PGME Forms Site 
• DO NOT email your immunization form.

Check Your Immunization Alerts in POWER: 

• Go to the “Messages” section on the initial view page to check for any missing or expired immunization requirements. 

Confirm Expiry Dates for: 

• Annual TB Test (Renew every 12 months if previously negative). 
  • Complete the annual TB Test Form (1-step Mantoux or IGRA). 
• Mask Fit Test (Renew every 2 years) 
  • Complete the mask fit test form. 
• Must be signed by a healthcare professional (not yourself). 

How to Submit:

• Submit completed forms to the PGME Forms Site

• Complete your mask fit test within 60 days of your training start date at your hospital training site's Occupational Health Office
• Mask fit testing is NOT required for registration but must be submitted within 60 days of your start date 
• Complete your mask fit test and submit/upload documentation to the PGME Forms Site  
• Please note 3M and Kimberly Clark Masks are the only masks accepted by PGME. 

• You must submit proof of a valid mask fit test before starting training via the PGME Forms Site
• Please note: 3M and Kimberly Clark Masks are the only masks accepted by PGME. 

• Ensure your mask fit test remains up to date for the duration of your training. 
• Mask fit tests are valid for 24 months as per the PGME Respiratory Protection Policy. 
• If expired or due for renewal, download the Mask Fit Test Form and submit via the PGME Forms Site 
• Please note: 3M and Kimberly Clark Masks are the only masks accepted by PGME.