As measles cases continue to climb nationwide, some people who have already been vaccinated may be asking if they should get revaccinated though the vaccine is considered extremely effective.
The answer? It depends.
“The measles vaccine is considered 97 percent effective for those who got both doses,” said SSM Health family medicine physician Dr. Alex Dresden. “Anyone who got the vaccine before 1968 should get an updated vaccine, as the newer one is more effective, as well as anyone who is more at risk for measles. That includes people who are immunocompromised, traveling to areas where there are measles outbreaks, and healthcare workers. Those people should discuss with their doctor if they would need a booster shot.”
A total of 222 cases of measles were reported across the U.S. as of March 6.1 Texas and New Mexico have been affected the most, but cases have been found all across the country.
Measles, a highly contagious respiratory virus, can survive in the air up to two hours. Nine out of 10 people who are unvaccinated will get the virus if exposed. One in five who get it will be hospitalized. While most kids will recover from measles, many others can suffer serious complications.
“Pneumonia and brain swelling are the most dangerous potential outcomes, and both can lead to death,” said Dr. Dresden. “The most insidious thing about measles is that you can have it as long as seven days before you start showing any symptoms so you’re contagious before you even know you have it.”
What are the symptoms of measles?
The signs of measles infection include:
- High fever (could be more than 104 degrees)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Tiny white spots in the mouth 2-3 days after other symptoms begin
- Rash of red spots 3-5 days after other symptoms begin
Why are we seeing so many measles cases?
“Back in 2000, we eradicated measles from the United States, where it was no longer endemic because we met the vaccination rates needed to achieve immunity as a population,” noted Dr. Dresden. “This resurgence is happening because we’re seeing lower vaccination rates and unvaccinated people traveling outside of the country are bringing the disease back to unvaccinated populations here in the U.S.”
When do people get vaccinated for measles?
The CDC recommends children get two doses of the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years old. Unvaccinated adults need to get at least one dose of the vaccine, but getting two doses is ideal.
“This virus is dangerous, highly contagious and totally preventable,” said Dr. Dresden. “Everyone should get vaccinated to protect themselves and the people they love.”
Fore more information, find a primary care physician or set up an appointment with your family provider today.
1. Measles cases and outbreaks. (2025, March 7). Measles (Rubeola). https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html
