Protect against measles prior to traveling

Those planning to travel are reminded to make sure they are protected against measles prior to their trip. Measles cases continue to be identified around the United States, and large outbreaks are ongoing internationally. Before travel, check your destination for health recommendations and travel notices on the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) travel health page.

Domestic and international travelers should plan to be fully vaccinated for measles at least two weeks before departing. Two doses of Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine provide 97% protection against measles. If you are traveling domestically, continue to follow the routinely recommended vaccine schedule.

The CDC has provided these additional vaccination recommendations to protect international travelers against measles:
• Infants under 12 months old who are traveling can get an early dose of MMR vaccine at six through 11 months. Follow the recommended schedule and get another dose of MMR vaccine at 12 through 15 months and a final dose at four through six years.
• Children over 12 months old who are traveling should get their first dose of MMR vaccine immediately and get a second dose 28 days after the first dose.
• Teens and adults with no evidence of immunity who are traveling should get their first dose of MMR vaccine immediately and get a second dose 28 days after the first dose.

After returning from your trip, monitor your health for measles symptoms for 21 days. Symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and descending rash. If measles symptoms develop within 21 days, contact your health care provider and describe your recent travel to determine if you should be tested.

For more information from the CDC about traveler health by destination, visit www.cdc.gov/travel/. For more information about measles vaccination prior to travel, visit www.cdc.gov/measles/plan-for-travel.html.

For CDC’s routinely recommended vaccine schedule, visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/. For more information locally, contact the Veterans Memorial Hospital Community and Home Care/Allamakee Public Health office at 563-568-5660.