HEALTHY LIVING


Are You Protected From Measles?


Once eliminated in U.S., the virus is back, with more than 2,000 cases reported last year. ::


BY CHRIS ILIADES, M.D. M


easles is one of the most contagious diseases known to humans. Before the measles


vaccine became available in the 1960s, as many as 4 million Americans were infected each year. In 2000, measles was declared


eliminated in the United States, with cases limited primarily to unvaccinated travelers or immigrants. Now, the virus is resurging. More


than 2,000 cases and three deaths were reported in 2025, and health officials warn this year could be worse. The question many Americans are


asking: Am I protected? “Because measles was eliminated,


but not eradicated, many clinicians practicing today, including myself, have never seen a case,” says Jasmine Marcelin, M.D., associate professor of infectious diseases at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. “Unfortunately, with declining


vaccination rates and ongoing outbreaks, it’s becoming increasingly likely that we will.”


IF YOU GOT TWO DOSES The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine — first at 12 to 15


months of age, and again at 4 to 6 years. “If you have had two doses, you are most likely protected,” says Marcelin. “The measles vaccine given as part


of MMR is so effective that after two doses, 97% of people are protected for the rest of their lives.” People born before 1957 are


generally considered immune because measles was so widespread at that time. “Almost everyone who was exposed has developed lifelong immunity,” says Marcelin.


IF YOU GOT ONE DOSE Before 1989, many people received only one dose of the vaccine. While a single dose offers strong protection, certain individuals may need a booster. “One dose is still 93% effective,


but people at higher risk, such as healthcare workers, those visiting outbreak areas, or individuals who live with someone who is immunocompromised, should receive the second dose,” advises Marcelin. There’s another important distinction for those vaccinated between 1963 and 1967. “The MMR is a live, attenuated


vaccine, which means that it contains a weakened version of the measles virus,” explains Marcelin. “People vaccinated between 1963


and ’67 likely need a booster because in those years, they used a vaccine that did not provide lasting immunity against measles. “Getting a booster will help your


immune system to protect you if you are exposed to measles today.”


NOT SURE? Marcelin says if you are unsure about your vaccination status, start by asking your healthcare provider or checking state immunization registries. “If records are unavailable, your


healthcare provider can help you determine if you should receive a booster immediately or check for immunity with a blood test,” she advises. In most cases, receiving an additional MMR dose is safe — even if you were previously vaccinated. Pregnant women and those who are immunosuppressed are typically advised against getting the vaccine.


IF SYMPTOMS DEVELOP Measles symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure. Early signs include high fever,


cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and white spots inside the mouth. A red rash usually begins on the


face and spreads downward across the body. People are contagious from four days before the rash appears to four days afterward. “Three out of 100 people could


potentially still get measles after both MMR doses, but the illness would likely be milder,” explains Marcelin. For people exposed to measles


who are not immune, a healthcare provider may recommend either the measles vaccine or immune globulin, which provides immediate antibodies for short-term protection. If you think you have been exposed or you develop symptoms, contact a healthcare provider right away.


92 NEWSMAX MAXLIFE | MAY 2026


VACCINE/KITSAWET SAETHAO/SHUTTERSTOCK / SKIN/ALEKSANDR FINCH/SHUTTERSTOCK


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