Protecting Yourself and Your Family From Measles

February 1st, 2015

Currently, there is a multi-state outbreak of measles which began with a child with the disease visiting Disneyland.  Measles is a highly contagious disease for people who have never been vaccinated against the disease.  Most states mandate that children be vaccinated with against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella before enrolling in school.  However, they have allowed for exemptions based on religious beliefs.  Over the years, many parents have used these religious exemptions even though the real reason they don’t want their children to get vaccinated is based on few studies suggesting that vaccines can cause autism.

The measles vaccine (usually found in a combination called MMR) is safe and effective.  If you are not sure you were vaccinated AND are in a profession dealing with children or healthcare, your primary care provider can order a simple blood test, called a titer to check for immunity.  I also recommend a one-time measles booster for any adult planning to travel to Asia, Africa, or South America in the future.

Make sure you protect yourself with good hand hygiene, teaching your children to cover their mouths with the bend of their arms when they cough, and keeping your immune system up.  Make sure you have gotten the flu vaccine.  (It’s not too late!) This is also a good time to locate and review your child’s immunization card.  Make sure your child got ALL the required immunizations.  Adults may also be due for other vaccinations.  Check with your primary care provider about the TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) vaccine.

Protect yourself and your family!  Vaccines are highly effective and safe!