Do You Need a Measles Vaccine?
The best protection against measles is knowing IF you were vaccinated, WHEN you were vaccinated, and whether you should get a Measles, Mumps, & Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Most people who are vaccinated with MMR or who had measles as a child are protected for life. It is recommended that everyone receive two doses of measles vaccine, which provide 97% efficacy against measles and associated complications of the virus.
Some people are unclear about whether they have immunity to measles. It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor so they can recommend the best course of action. Important! It’s completely safe to get vaccinated, even if you already have immunity, either from infection or a previous vaccine.
Here are some hints to help figure it out:
Were you born before 1957? If so, it’s safe to assume you were already exposed to measles and do not need an MMR vaccine.
Were you vaccinated between 1957 and 1962? If so, you may need an MMR vaccine and should check with our doctor.
Were you vaccinated between 1963 and 1967? Then yes, you should get another vaccine, since it’s likely that the one you received was ineffective. Learn more about this timeframe at CDC’s website.
Were you vaccinated between 1968 and 1989? If so you may need an MMR vaccine and should check with our doctor.
Were you vaccinated after 1989? Most children were adequately vaccinated after this date and therefore do not need another vaccine.
Looking for more information about measles? Visit: www.capecod.gov/measles
