Measles outbreaks in the U.S. are surging this year, with 222 measles cases reported as of March 7th – putting the country on pace to surpass last year’s total of 285 cases.
Measles is considered to be one of the most contagious viruses on the planet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that for every 1 person that contracts measles, 9 out of 10 people of all ages who come into close contact with the infected person will also become infected if they are not immune through either vaccines or past infections. Beyond its high transmission rate, measles is also a serious disease that can lead to deafness, brain damage, pneumonia, a weakened immune system – and even death.
There is no FDA-approved treatment for measles. This means that the MMR vaccine (a combination vaccine that protects against measles, mumps, and rubella viruses or the MMRV vaccine (a combination vaccine that protects against measles, mumps, rubella and varicella viruses) are the only way to safely prevent this dangerous disease.
Here’s everything you need to know about the measles vaccine and the recommended MMR vaccine schedule for infants, children and adults.
Who needs the MMR vaccine, and when?
The CDC recommends that all children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine as part of the routine immunization schedule. The first dose is given at 12-15 months of age, and the second dose is given at 4-6 years of age.
College students without evidence of immunity who are living in dormitories should receive two doses, separated by at least 28 days.
For adults, the vaccine recommendations depend on evidence of immunity and risk factors:
- Adults born before 1957 are presumed to have natural immunity to measles because of how widespread measles were before vaccination was introduced, so they generally do not require a measles vaccination.
- Adults who do not have evidence of natural immunity should receive at least one dose.
- Adults who have low amounts of measles antibodies and who work in healthcare settings or other settings where transmission risk is high should receive two doses, at least 28 days apart.
If you’re not sure about your measles immunity status, you can book a same-day online lab order referral visit to find out. Your provider will order an affordable lab test to check for measles antibodies in your blood and determine if you've been infected with measles in the past or received the measles vaccine.
Because it is a live vaccine, the measles vaccine is not recommended for pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals. It is also not recommended for those with severe neomycin allergies.
You can view the MMR vaccine schedule by age group below:
| Age group | Vaccine schedule |
|---|---|
| Infants (<6 months old) | Not routinely recommended, but exceptions may be made for children who are traveling internationally |
| Children (12-15 months old) | First dose of MMR vaccine (MMRV may also be used) |
| Children (4-6 years old) | Second dose of MMR vaccine (MMRV may also be used) |
| College students without evidence of immunity who are living in dormitories | Two doses separated by at least 28 days |
| Adults born after 1957 without evidence of immunity | One or two doses if not previously vaccinated, depending on risk factors |
| Adults born before 1957 | Generally considered immune, but may need one dose if they are healthcare personnel or in settings where there is a high risk of measles transmission |
| Immunocompromised individuals | Not recommended for most people |
| Pregnant women | Not recommended due to risk of live vaccines while pregnant |
How effective is the MMR vaccine in preventing measles?
The MMR vaccine is extremely effective at preventing measles. One dose provides about 93% protection against measles, while two doses increase protection to 97%.
Breakthrough cases are extremely rare, and research shows that people who are fully vaccinated against measles are less likely to spread the virus to others.
Is the measles vaccine safe?
Yes, the MMR vaccine has been thoroughly studied since it was made available in 1971 and is considered safe and effective by the CDC, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), and other public health authorities.
The most common side effects include soreness or slight swelling at the injection site, mild fever and rash.
How Sesame can help
With measles outbreaks on the rise, ensuring protection through vaccination is more important than ever. The MMR vaccine is widely available at pharmacies, doctor’s offices, local health departments, and university health centers – and if you have questions about vaccination or natural immunity, a provider on Sesame can help in several ways!
If you’re unsure about your immune status, you can book a virtual lab order referral visit to get a lab order and check your body's immunity to measles.
If you have questions about your vaccination schedule or need personalized recommendations, book an online doctor’s appointment on Sesame.
Both types of visits are convenient, affordable ways to get same-day expert guidance from a licensed healthcare professional so that you and your loved ones can stay protected.
