Measles Outbreak Frequently Asked Questions

The answer depends on your age group and whether or not there’s a measles outbreak.

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is the standard vaccine to protect against measles.

• Anyone who has documentation of 2 doses of MMR already – no boosters are recommended for measles protection even in an outbreak situation.
• Anyone who has had measles. Vaccination provides lifelong immunity.
• Anyone who has a titer (blood test) showing immunity. This doesn’t need to be rechecked.

Below is a chart regarding measles vaccinations by age:

• Don’t get MMR if you had a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction to MMR or to any vaccine component (such as neomycin or gelatin).
• Don’t get MMR if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant within the next month.
• If you have any questions on whether or not you should be vaccinated based on your health status, talk to your doctor.

No. Women who are pregnant, or planning to become pregnant within the next month, should not be vaccinated until after delivery.

Yes, it is safe to breastfeed after getting the MMR vaccine. The vaccine does not pass through breast milk, and it will not harm your baby.

• If you have a mild illness (like a cold), you can still get the vaccine.
• If you have a moderate or severe illness, like a high fever, wait until you feel better before getting the vaccine.

Some conditions (like cancer, HIV, or organ transplants) weaken the immune system. People with these conditions should not get the measles vaccine unless their doctor says it is safe.

Yes. Measles vaccine contains weakened viruses and are not passed from the vaccinated person to other household members.

Vitamin A does not prevent measles - vaccination is the best way to protect your child from the disease.

If you think you might have measles, call the Department of Health right away for guidance: 1-833-796-8773. You can also contact your healthcare provider. Call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital so that you don’t spread the virus to others.

• Call the Department of Health for guidance: 1-833-796-8773.
• Review vaccination records for yourself and your family.
• Call your medical care provider. Your medical care provider can:
  • Check your vaccination records
  • Check to see if you are immune to measles
  • Provide guidance on symptom monitoring

If you are not immune or up to date on your measles vaccine, you should stay home for 21 days following your exposure to avoid spreading the infection to others.

If you have measles:

• Stay home for 4 full days after the day your rash appeared.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough and sneeze.
• Wash your hands with soap and water.
• Do not share drinks or eating utensils.
• Disinfect surfaces that you touch.
• Call your medical care provider if your symptoms get worse.

Measles spreads easily from person to person through the air. The virus can stay in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a room. Unvaccinated people are at high risk if exposed.

The best protection is the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. The vaccine is safe, effective, and has been used for decades.

The MMR vaccine is available at doctor’s offices, pharmacies, and public health clinics. Most insurance plans cover the vaccine, including Medicaid (Turquoise Care). Free or low-cost options are available for uninsured or underinsured people.

You are considered protected from measles if you have written records showing at least one of the following:

• You received two doses of the measles vaccine, and you are:
  • A school-aged child (grades K-12)
  • An adult in a high-risk setting, such as a healthcare worker, a college student, or an international traveler
• You received one dose of the measles vaccine, and you are:
  • A preschool-aged child (12 months to 4 years of age).
  • An adult who is not in a high-risk setting.
  • You have laboratory confirmation of a past measles infection or immunity to measles.
  • You were born before 1957, as measles was very common before the vaccine was available.

If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, you can:

• Talk with your medical care provider.
• Check your vaccination record at the NMDOH VaxView website: Public Portal. You can also check your children’s records through VaxView.
• Call the DOH: 1-833-796-8773

• Children: The first dose is given at 12-15 months old, and the second dose at 4-6 years old. During a measles outbreak, the second dose can be given early to increase protection, at least 28 days after the first dose.
• Unvaccinated Adults born after 1957: should get at least one dose of MMR.
• People Vaccinated Before 1968: Those who got an inactivated (killed) measles vaccine or a vaccine of unknown type or who cannot provide documentation of a measles vaccine should get at least one dose of the live measles vaccine (MMR).
• Travelers: People traveling internationally should have 2 doses of MMR since measles is more common in some countries.
• Healthcare Workers: should have 2 doses of MMR or proof of immunity (titer)
• If you have HIV/AIDS and your immune system is not too weak, you may be able to get the vaccine. Your doctor can help decide.

No. If you had two doses as a child, you are protected for life.

For most adults born after 1957, one dose of the measles vaccine is enough for protection. However, the following groups of adults should receive two doses:

• College or university students
• Healthcare workers
• International travelers
• People at increased risk during a measles outbreak, as determined by public health officials or the person’s medical provider.

Yes! Lots of research proves that the MMR vaccine is safe. You may have mild side effects like a sore arm or low fever, but serious side effects are very rare. The risks of getting sick from measles are much higher than any possible side effects from the vaccine.

Two doses of the measles vaccine provide 97% protection against measles.

The measles vaccine helps your immune system recognize and fight the virus. It contains a weakened form of the virus that helps your body make protective antibodies. If you are exposed to measles later, your immune system remembers how to fight it.

The vaccine starts working within a few days, but full protection takes 2 to 3 weeks.

If you are traveling internationally, get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before you leave.

In rare cases, fully vaccinated people can still get measles. Vaccinated people who get measles usually have a milder illness and are less likely to spread the virus to others.

• For more information online, visit the New Mexico Department of Health Immunization website or Measles | CDC.
• You can check your vaccination record or that of your legal dependent online at the NMDOH VaxView website.
• Call the Department of Health Helpline at 1-833-796-8773:
  • To seek a medical provider.
  • Ask questions about measles, vaccines or other medical questions.
  • Vaccination records.
  • For medical providers legally required to report suspected cases.