Should you get a measles booster? Here’s what to know. - The Washington Post

By Morgan Smith: The measles virus, once on the brink of elimination in the United States, has seen a resurgence in recent years. With outbreaks occurring across the country, there's been increasing discussion about whether adults who received the recommended two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine as children should consider getting a measles booster to further protect themselves. This potential step raises a host of questions: How effective are the initial MMR vaccines? Who might benefit from a booster? And are there any potential risks or side effects associated with it?

This article aims to cut through the noise and provide clear, objective insights into these questions. Drawing on the latest scientific research and expert opinions, we will explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of a measles booster for adults in the United States. Amidst an evolving public health landscape, informed decision-making is more critical than ever. Thus, understanding the nuances of this issue could prove vital for individual health and the broader goal of measles eradication.

The MMR vaccine, which stands for measles, mumps, and rubella, is a staple of childhood vaccinations in the United States. This vaccine is typically administered in two doses, with the first dose given between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between 4 and 6 years of age. These two doses are designed to confer lifelong immunity to these three diseases. However, recent outbreaks of measles in certain parts of the country have raised questions about the longevity of this immunity and the possible need for a booster shot.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that was once common in the United States. It was declared eliminated from the country in 2000, thanks to a highly effective vaccination program. However, sporadic outbreaks still occur, often in communities with low vaccination rates. These outbreaks have sparked a debate among health professionals about whether adults who were vaccinated as children might benefit from a measles vaccine booster.

A measles vaccine booster is a third dose of the MMR vaccine. It is not routinely recommended for most adults because the two-dose regimen is thought to provide lifelong immunity. However, certain adults may benefit from a booster. These include healthcare workers, international travelers, and people living in communities experiencing a measles outbreak. The booster is designed to enhance the body's immune response to the virus, increasing the chances of remaining disease-free.

The measles virus, a highly contagious viral disease, spreads through close contact with infected individuals, or through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include high fever, runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and a rash that spreads all over the body. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a combined vaccine that protects against all three diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective. Most adults in the US received these two doses as part of their childhood immunization program.

However, the effectiveness of the vaccine can diminish over time, leading to the question of whether adults should get a booster shot. This is not a straightforward issue, as the need for a booster depends on several factors such as the individual's age, overall health status, and the level of measles exposure risk.

For instance, adults who were vaccinated before 1968 with an inactivated (killed) measles virus vaccine, which was found to be less effective than the current live attenuated measles vaccine, may need a booster shot. Similarly, adults who were born before 1957 and therefore assumed to be naturally immune to measles, might not be protected if they were never exposed to the disease. For these groups, a booster shot could provide additional protection.

Despite the general effectiveness of the MMR vaccine, certain adults may still benefit from a measles vaccine booster. This is particularly true for those who fall into high-risk categories. "Individuals who are unsure of their immunity status, particularly those planning to travel internationally, healthcare workers, or those who live in communities experiencing measles outbreaks, should consider getting an MMR booster," says Dr. Lisa Maragakis, an infectious diseases specialist at Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Assessing the need for a booster shot can be complex. According to Dr. Maragakis, "It's important to remember that while the MMR vaccine is highly effective, no vaccine is 100% foolproof. As such, in situations where exposure risk is high, a booster shot can serve as an extra layer of protection."

However, Dr. Maragakis stresses that the decision to get a booster shot should not be made lightly. "It's always best to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess individual health history and potential exposure risk before making this decision," she advises. "The last thing we want is for people to panic and rush to get a booster shot without fully understanding their level of risk."

Given the prevalence of measles outbreaks in recent years, it's critical to understand the importance of maintaining immunity against this highly contagious disease. Most adults in the United States have received the recommended two doses of the MMR vaccine during their childhood. However, as immunity can wane over time, a measles vaccine booster may be beneficial for some adults.

Deciding whether to get a measles booster shot is a personal decision that should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. It's important to assess factors such as travel plans, health conditions, and the potential risk of exposure to the disease. While the measles vaccine booster is not universally recommended, it may provide an additional layer of protection for certain individuals.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of public health in the 21st century, it's essential to stay informed and proactive about our own health. In the face of a potential measles outbreak, getting a vaccine booster might be one of the best preventative measures available.

Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2025/03/24/measles-vaccine-booster-outbreak-states/