Measles in adults. Are you protected?
While in medical school, I was told measles was a disease of the past — an illness of historical significance but not something I’d likely see in my career in the U.S. Fast forward about a decade and, sadly, we can’t tell medical students this anymore. Around the country, there have been more frequent outbreaks of measles in the past 10 years, including in the Kansas City metro just last year.
I strongly recommend the standard vaccine schedule for all children to protect against measles. But these days, it’s adults who are asking me, “Should I be worried about the measles?”
Most are pretty sure they had the infection or vaccine as a child but aren’t 100% certain.
Historically, measles was an infection of childhood. Measles can definitely be contracted by adults who are not immune to it and these adults can spread it to anyone else who is not immune. Making sure that adults are protected against measles is an essential part of protecting a community, including children, from an outbreak.
Which adults should consider a measles vaccine:
Anybody born during or after 1957 (currently age 19–62) who does not have proof (documentation) of at least 1 dose of MMR vaccine as a child or adult.
Unfortunately, without actual documentation (vaccine record) of an MMR vaccine or previous lab work (titers) proving immunity, it’s hard to be certain of your immune status. While it is very possible you are immune, being told that you had measles infection or vaccine as a child is not enough for confirmation according to the CDC — this is especially true for people born prior to 1970.
If you (or someone you know) fits the description above, this person may not currently be protected from the measles. This means they could get sick if they are exposed.
If not fully certain of immunity, there are a few options:
1. Get a lab test to determine current immunity.
This lab test, called a titer, checks for the immune function (IgG) against the measles. If these IgG levels are high, it means you are protected. This approach is the most certain way to confirm immunity. It is what nearly all health care workers (doctors, nurses, etc.) do to be certain of their safety working with sick people.
If a person is found to not have immunity (absent or low IgG levels), it is recommended they receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.
2. Get the MMR vaccine
An alternative approach to lab testing is to just get a Measle-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine if uncertain of infection or vaccination history. The MMR vaccine, like all vaccinations, provokes a response from the immune system to protect against future exposure. With a single dose, it is 93% effective. It has been routinely given as part of the standard childhood series of immunizations (2 doses) for nearly 60 years. The same MMR vaccine is also given to adults and is safe even if a person is already immune.
What can I do to protect myself, and my community, from measles?
If you are not sure whether you are protected from measles or not, starting with a primary care doctor is a good start. In the Kansas City area, you can find now find a range of wide range of affordable, primary care services on Sesame.
If you need lab testing to determine immunity — even without insurance coverage — you can get a Measles Immunity Check on Sesame for only $39. If required or indicated, you can also get the measles (MMR) vaccine with a local doctor on Sesame for just $99. You can also check with your local health department or retail pharmacy who may administer vaccines.
Assuring that you, your family, and neighbors are protected from his preventable infection is increasingly important. Sesame is happy to help Kansas Citians get it done at an affordable price!
DISCLAIMER: The information contained herein should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other health care provider. The information provided here is for informational purposes only. Please check with a physician if you have health questions or concerns. You may also learn more about the measles on the CDC’s website.
