The ongoing measles outbreak in West Texas, which has rapidly increased from 14 to 58 cases, underscores the critical need for vaccinations. Experts indicate that with declines in kindergarten vaccination rates, the risk of further outbreaks looms. While children are often the focus, adults, particularly those vaccinated before 1968, may also require revaccination as early vaccines were less effective. The measles vaccine is deemed safe, and those unsure of immunization should consider getting vaccinated to bolster community protection.
"It's very hard to control measles," he says. The best defense against measles is vaccination. The vast majority of people getting sick in Texas are unvaccinated.
"If you have been vaccinated with two doses of vaccine as per routine, you have a 95-plus percent chance of being completely protected throughout your life," Schaffner says.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that anyone vaccinated before 1968 get at least one dose of the live attenuated vaccine.
If you're not sure of your immunity or vaccination status, there's no harm in getting a shot.
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