The Current Measles Outbreak: Do You Need a Booster Vaccine?
If you’re fully vaccinated, meaning you’ve received two doses of the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine, you likely don’t need another dose, according to infectious disease specialist Dr. William Schaffner. However, if you’re worried about your vaccination status or have missed a vaccine dose, it’s best to reach out to your primary doctor or local health department to discuss your options.
MMR Vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
The MMR vaccine is given as part of a combination shot, which also protects against mumps and rubella. If you were vaccinated against measles as a child, you may not be fully protected if you received the MMR vaccine during certain years. The version administered between 1963 and 1967 was not as protective as the current one, and between 1968 and 1989, the recommendation was for just one dose. If your vaccine record only shows one MMR shot, you should talk to your doctor about whether you need a second dose.
Chickenpox Vaccine (Also Called Varicella)
According to the CDC, people 13 years and older who have never had chickenpox or received a chickenpox vaccine should get two doses, separated by 28 days. If you’ve only had one dose when you were a child, you should also get a second dose. Additionally, once you turn 50, you should consider getting Shingrix, a two-dose shingles vaccine. Shingles is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, and it can happen years after someone has recovered from chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine.
Tetanus Vaccine (TdaP or DTaP)
A tetanus booster (TDaP for adults and DTaP for kids) is recommended every 10 years or after an injury. The TDaP vaccine also protects against diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). While the effectiveness of the combination vaccine wanes after several years, a booster isn’t broadly recommended sooner than 10 years, according to Dr. Shira Doron, chief infection control officer at Tufts Medicine. However, doctors may suggest one for people in close contact with infants younger than two months if it has been a few years since their last TDaP shot or if their vaccination history is unknown.
Can You Get Booster Vaccines for Free?
If your doctor recommends a vaccine booster dose, you may want to check with your private insurer or Medicare to see if the shot is covered. If not, and it’s a local or statewide recommendation, chances are the health department will provide the shot for free. In Texas, for example, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has arranged for thousands of measles vaccines to be given free of charge.
Conclusion
The current measles outbreak highlights the importance of vaccination and booster shots. It’s essential to stay up-to-date on your vaccination schedule to protect yourself and those around you. If you’re unsure about your vaccination history or need to catch up on boosters, consult your doctor or local health department for guidance.
FAQs
- What if I’m unsure about my vaccination history?
Consult your doctor at your next visit to discuss next steps. - Can I get a booster vaccine for free?
Check with your private insurer or Medicare, or contact your local health department for information on free or low-cost vaccination options. - How often should I get a tetanus booster?
A tetanus booster (TDaP for adults and DTaP for kids) is recommended every 10 years or after an injury.
