Measles cases are rising in the U.S. Do adults need a vaccine booster?

Measles cases are increasing in the U.S., particularly in West Texas, where the number of infections has jumped from 14 to 58 in just one week. With declining childhood vaccination rates, more communities are at risk of outbreaks.

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Experts emphasize that vaccination is the best defense against measles, as the disease is one of the most contagious in the world. Most people who received two doses of the vaccine are well-protected for life. However, some adults may need revaccination.

Adults born between 1957 and 1968 who received an early, inactivated version of the measles vaccine should get at least one dose of the modern, live-attenuated vaccine. Additionally, those vaccinated between 1968 and 1989 may have only received one dose instead of the two now recommended. While one dose is highly effective, a second may be necessary for those at high risk, including healthcare workers, college students, international travelers, and individuals in outbreak areas.

With vaccination rates in some regions falling below the 95% threshold needed to prevent community outbreaks, health officials urge both children and at-risk adults to stay up to date on their immunizations.

Source: NPR