Compiled from notes by: Elizabeth Jacobs, PhD
Epidemiologist. Professor Emerita.
Disclaimer: Please note that the author is not a physician. Information shared on social media may lack nuance. It is strongly recommended to seek information from multiple reliable sources and consult your healthcare provider for personal medical advice.
Source link provided in notes: CDC MMR Vaccine Information
A. Probably not. The main exception in the U.S. involves individuals vaccinated between 1963 and 1968. During this period, some may have received an older, less effective "killed" measles vaccine instead of the current live attenuated vaccine. It's best to ask your doctor to review your specific situation and records.
A. The best approach is to talk to your doctor. They may recommend a blood test to check your immunity levels (called "titers"). It's important to remember that the MMR vaccine is a live, attenuated vaccine. Therefore, it should generally not be given to people who are significantly immunosuppressed, pregnant, or have had severe allergic reactions to previous doses or vaccine components. Your doctor can advise based on your health status.
A. Yes, generally. Natural infection with measles typically provides lifelong immunity for the vast majority of people. While rare exceptions might exist, immunity is usually robust. If you have concerns, you can talk to your doctor about having your immunity levels (titers) checked.
A. Measles is extremely contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is one of the most infectious airborne pathogens known. The virus can remain infectious in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves an area. If one person has measles, about 9 out of 10 susceptible (unvaccinated or non-immune) people close to them will also become infected.
A. There are options for post-exposure prophylaxis if action is taken quickly. Contact your healthcare provider immediately.
A. Symptoms typically start 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Initial symptoms often resemble the flu or a cold, including a runny nose, cough, red watery eyes (conjunctivitis), and fever. A characteristic rash appears a few days later, usually starting at the hairline and spreading downwards. The rash appears as red spots on lighter skin, but can look darker brown, purple, or even whitish on darker skin tones.
A. Yes, absolutely, unless there is a specific medical reason (contraindication) why they shouldn't receive it, which your doctor will identify. There is significant misinformation surrounding the MMR vaccine. If you have concerns, please discuss them with your trusted healthcare provider and rely on their expert medical advice.
A. (Author's perspective) Unfortunately, the current head of HHS, Mr. Kennedy, has spent the last two decades spreading misinformation about the MMR vaccine specifically. It takes a person of character to admit they were wrong, so.
*Note: This answer reflects the opinion and statement provided in the source notes.*
A. Absolutely not. Intentionally exposing children to measles is dangerous and irresponsible. Measles can lead to severe complications, even in healthy children. In the U.S., about 1 in 4 unvaccinated people who get measles require hospitalization. Potential complications include pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling, which can cause permanent brain damage), blindness, and even death. Participating in such an activity could potentially expose you to legal liability if the neighbor's children suffer serious complications. Vaccination is the safe and recommended way to protect children.