Which travelers are at risk? You are at risk of measles infection if you travel internationally and you have not been fully vaccinated against measles or have not had measles in the past. The best protection against measles is vaccination.
Measles is extremely contagious. If you are sick, do not travel and avoid contact with others. Call your doctor and tell them where you traveled.
What countries are having measles outbreaks? Measles is in many countries and outbreaks of disease are occurring around the world, including Europe, the Middle East, Asia, the Pacific, and Africa. Each year, an estimated 10 million people get measles, and about 110,000 of them die from the disease or complications.
Currently, many countries are experiencing measles outbreaks; this includes many popular travel destinations like Israel, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Ukraine, England, Brazil, the Philippines, and more. CDC has issued a Global Travel Notice: Watch (Level 1) for these outbreaks. Before your next trip, check your destination.
How can I be fully protected before my trip? Make sure you and your family are fully vaccinated or that you have other evidence of measles immunity. Evidence of immunity means that you: (1) were born before 1957 or (2) have a lab test showing that you have had measles in the past, (3) have a lab test showing you were immunized against measles, or (4) you have written documentation of receiving measles vaccine.
If you do not have evidence of measles immunity, call your doctor and make an appointment to get the MMR vaccine. MMR is nearly 100% effective at preventing measles. If you are unsure if you have had two doses of the vaccine, or do not have documentation of your prior doses, it is safe to get additional doses.
How to Counsel Your Patients: Check to make sure your patients are fully vaccinated or otherwise protected against measles before they travel.
• Infants 6–11 months of age traveling internationally should have one dose of measles vaccine.
o Infants vaccinated before 12 months of age should be revaccinated on or after their first birthday with two doses, separated by at least 28 days.
• Children 12 months of age or older should have two doses, separated by at least 28 days.
• Adolescents and adults who have not had measles or have not been vaccinated should get two doses, separated by at least 28 days.
• Two doses of MMR vaccine are nearly 100% effective at preventing measles.
• See Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) for more information.
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