Can Vaccinated Adults Get Measles?

Measles outbreaks in the U.S. have made vaccinated adults worry about their immunity. The measles vaccine offers strong protection, but it’s not foolproof. It’s known that two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles. This means a small number of people might not be fully protected.

It’s important to understand how well the measles vaccine works. At Liv Hospital, we focus on giving advice based on solid evidence. Even though rare, some vaccinated people can get measles, but these cases are usually mild. We’ll look into how well the MMR vaccine works and its impact on public health.

Key Takeaways

• The measles vaccine is not 100% effective, leaving a small percentage of vaccinated individuals at risk.
• Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles.
• Breakthrough infections can occur in vaccinated individuals, but they are rare and typically mild.
• Understanding vaccine effectiveness is key for making smart health choices.
• Liv Hospital offers advice based on evidence for vaccinations and public health.

Measles Vaccine Effectiveness in Adults

It’s important to know how well the measles vaccine works in adults to stop outbreaks. The measles vaccine, part of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine, helps protect people and communities from measles. This disease is very contagious.

How the MMR Vaccine Works

The MMR vaccine introduces a small, harmless measles virus piece to the body. This triggers the immune system to make antibodies. These antibodies fight the measles virus and keep you from getting it again. Adults who get vaccinated lower their risk of measles.

The MMR vaccine is first given to babies between 12 and 15 months old. Then, a second dose is given between ages 4 and 6. Adults who haven’t been vaccinated or aren’t sure can get the vaccine too.

Protection Rates with One vs. Two Doses

Research shows that two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles. One dose is 93% effective. A single dose given at 12 or 15 months is 85% to 95% effective. With a second dose, the effectiveness is almost 100%.

Getting two doses of the MMR vaccine boosts your immunity and helps protect others. It’s key to follow the vaccination schedule for the best protection against measles.

Can Vaccinated Adults Get Measles?

Measles vaccination is very effective, but some wonder if vaccinated adults can get measles. The answer is yes, but it’s rare. This happens because of breakthrough infections, which are when vaccinated people get the virus.

Understanding Breakthrough Infections

Breakthrough infections happen when fully vaccinated people get measles. These cases are rare. They usually have milder symptoms than those who aren’t vaccinated. About 10% of all measles cases in the U.S. are breakthrough infections.

“Even with vaccination, there’s a small chance of getting measles,” a health advisory notes. “But symptoms are usually less severe. And the risk of spreading it to others is much lower.”

Symptoms and Transmission Risk in Vaccinated Individuals

When vaccinated adults get measles, they often have milder symptoms. This includes a less severe rash, lower fever, and less virus. This is important because it means they are less likely to spread it to others.

A healthcare expert says, “In vaccinated people, measles is much milder. And the chance of spreading it to others is greatly reduced.”

The symptoms in vaccinated adults can include:

• Mild fever
• Less severe rash
• Reduced cough and other respiratory symptoms

Even with mild symptoms, measles can be uncomfortable. It can cause high fever, sensitivity to light, dehydration, cough, pneumonia, and rash. But, it’s usually less severe in vaccinated people.

Vaccination History and Immunity Factors

Vaccination history is key to understanding immunity against measles. Knowing someone’s vaccination history helps figure out their measles risk. It also guides public health efforts.

Standard Vaccination Schedule and Lifetime Immunity

The measles vaccine is given in two doses. The first is at 12 to 15 months, and the second at 4 to 6 years. The Canadian Immunization Guide says two doses give lifelong immunity to measles for most.

It’s important to check if adults have been vaccinated, mainly if they travel. They might face a higher measles risk.

Natural Immunity for Those Born Before 1957

People born before 1957 likely have natural immunity to measles. This is because measles was common back then.

But, some groups like healthcare workers or travelers to measles areas should get vaccinated. It doesn’t matter when they were born.

Concerns for Adults Vaccinated Between 1963-1968

Adults vaccinated between 1963 and 1968 got a different measles vaccine. This one doesn’t protect as well as today’s vaccine.

Those vaccinated then should check their records. They might need a booster to stay safe from measles.

Conclusion

It’s important to know how well the measles vaccine works and what affects our immunity. The vaccine is very effective, but sometimes, people can get measles even after being vaccinated.

If you’re not sure if you’ve had the measles vaccine, talk to a doctor. They might suggest a blood test to see if you’re immune. Or, they could recommend another dose of the MMR vaccine to protect you.

Getting another dose of the MMR vaccine is safe and can help you stay protected against measles. If you’ve already had measles, you’re usually immune. But, checking your immunity can give you peace of mind and help stop measles outbreaks.

We suggest talking to your doctor to figure out what’s best for you. They can tell you if you need to get vaccinated against measles again.

FAQ

 References

National Center for Biotechnology Information. Evidence-Based Medical Insight. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6838664/