The recent measles outbreak in Texas has raised significant public health concerns, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and proactive measures to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease.
Current Situation in Texas
As of February 28, 2025, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported 146 confirmed measles cases since late January, primarily affecting children. Tragically, there has been one fatality involving an unvaccinated school-aged child. Additionally, twenty individuals have been hospitalized during this outbreak.
Understanding Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, white spots inside the mouth, and a distinctive rash. Complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis, and death, particularly among young children and immunocompromised individuals.
How to Protect Yourself
Vaccination: The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective, with two doses providing approximately 97% immunity against measles.
Verify Immunity: Adults born after 1957 should ensure they have received at least one dose of the MMR vaccine or have other evidence of immunity. Those at higher risk—such as healthcare workers, international travelers, and students in post-secondary institutions—should receive two doses, spaced at least 28 days apart.
Stay Informed: Keep abreast of local health advisories and outbreak reports. If you reside in or plan to travel to areas affected by measles outbreaks, take extra precautions to ensure you are vaccinated and aware of potential exposure risks.
Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing can help reduce the spread of infections.
MMR Vaccine Recommendations for Adults Over 18
Low-Risk Adults: Generally, one dose of the MMR vaccine is sufficient for adults born after 1957 without evidence of immunity.
High-Risk Adults: Individuals at higher risk, including healthcare personnel, international travelers, and students at post-high school educational institutions, should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, separated by at least 28 days.
Adults Vaccinated Before 1968: Those who received the inactivated (killed) measles vaccine between 1963 and 1968 should be revaccinated with at least one dose of the live attenuated MMR vaccine, as the earlier vaccine's effectiveness was lower. (More detailed schedule from CDC below)
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in Texas underscores the critical importance of vaccination and community immunity. By ensuring vaccinations are up-to-date and adhering to public health guidelines, individuals can protect themselves and help prevent the further spread of measles. Consult with healthcare providers to confirm your vaccination status and receive the MMR vaccine if necessary.
Adults Born Before 1957
Likely Immune: The CDC considers most adults born before 1957 immune to measles because the virus was widespread before the introduction of the vaccine.
Exceptions:
Healthcare workers and others at higher risk (such as those working with immunocompromised patients) may need at least one dose of the MMR vaccine if they do not have documented immunity.
Immunity can be confirmed with a blood test (measles IgG titer). If the test shows no immunity, vaccination is recommended.
Adults Born Between 1957 and 1967
Some individuals in this group may have received an early, inactivated (killed) measles vaccine, which was later found to be ineffective.
If you were vaccinated in the early 1960s (particularly between 1963 and 1967), you may need revaccinationwith at least one dose of the live MMR vaccine.
If unsure about the type of vaccine received, consult your healthcare provider or consider getting a measles immunity blood test (IgG titer).
Adults Born Between 1968 and 1989
Most people in this group received one dose of the live measles vaccine as children.
However, one dose is only about 93% effective, meaning some individuals may still be susceptible to infection.
Who Needs a Second Dose?
Healthcare workers, international travelers, college/university students, and those in outbreak areasshould receive a second dose of MMR at least 28 days after the first dose to ensure full protection (97% effectiveness).
Others may consider a second dose, especially if they live in an area experiencing an outbreak.
Adults Born After 1989
The two-dose MMR schedule became standard in 1989, so most individuals in this group are already fully vaccinated.
However, if you missed a dose or are unsure of your vaccine history, you should receive two doses of MMR, spaced at least 28 days apart.
Additional Considerations for All Adults
If You’re Unsure of Your Vaccine History:
A measles immunity blood test (IgG titer) can confirm immunity. If the test shows no immunity, vaccination is recommended.
If You Plan to Travel Internationally:
Anyone 18 and older traveling to countries where measles is still common should ensure they have received two doses of MMR vaccine.
If You Work in Healthcare or Around Immunocompromised Individuals:
You must have either documented immunity or two doses of the MMR vaccine for full protection.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen.