If you were born prior to 1989, it might be wise to reach out to your healthcare provider about receiving an additional dose of the measles vaccine.
In light of the current measles outbreak—which is now the most severe since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000—health experts are advising adults born before 1989 to reassess their vaccination status. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all Americans over the age of one receive the measles vaccine, which is administered in two doses. The first dose offers approximately a 93 percent chance of immunity, and the second dose increases that protection to 97 percent. However, during the 1980s, many individuals only received a single dose, potentially leaving a significant portion of the population underprotected.
The urgency of this recommendation is underscored by a recent case in which an Israeli woman, despite being vaccinated, contracted measles and fell into a coma. Dr. Nathaniel Fischer, an expert in infectious diseases, expressed concern, stating, “She was previously healthy and now we’re just hoping for improvement.”
Dr. Lisa Harmon, a vaccine advisor for the CDC, warned of the increasing risk of outbreaks. “We’re witnessing the resurgence of a serious viral infection due to declining vaccination rates,” she noted. With measles cases at their highest level in nearly 20 years, it’s crucial for adults to consider getting an additional dose of the vaccine. After all, many parents are frequently around their children and want to ensure the safety of both their families and the broader community.
The ongoing outbreak has prompted the FDA to emphasize the importance and safety of vaccines. Dr. Sarah Connors from the FDA stated, “The extensive scientific evidence clearly demonstrates that vaccines are one of the safest and most effective ways to prevent illness and safeguard public health.” Vaccination against measles not only protects individuals and their children but also benefits those who cannot be vaccinated, such as children undergoing treatment for cancer.
Measles is far from a benign childhood illness. The CDC reports that 1 in 1,000 children who contract measles may develop encephalitis, which can result in severe complications like convulsions, hearing loss, or cognitive disabilities. Furthermore, 1 or 2 out of every 1,000 infected children in the U.S. may die from the disease, with global rates being even higher. Given the severity of these risks, it’s difficult to understand why anyone would opt out of vaccination if they are healthy enough to receive it. If you believe you might need a second dose of the measles vaccine, please consult your healthcare provider regarding your options.
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In summary, adults born before 1989 may not be adequately vaccinated against measles, and with the recent outbreak, a second dose could be essential for their protection and the safety of those around them.