Children: Measles vaccine is included in the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, varicella) vaccines. The first dose of this vaccine is routinely given at 12 months of age, with a second dose at 4 – 6 years of age. If it has not already been done, the second dose is often given when the child starts kindergarten. It is one of the required immunizations for school in North Dakota. Therefore, unless your child is behind on the immunization schedule or you have declined to immunize your child, children in school are generally protected.
Adults born in 1957 or later: To be certain they are protected, adults in this age group should have a record of vaccination. Some early vaccinations may have contained only the measles vaccine, and may not have been the MMR combination. Those attending college or other secondary educational institutions, persons who work in medical facilities, and international travelers should receive two doses of MMR. Measles vaccination is 95%-98% effective after one dose. Adults who have had only one dose may choose to have a second dose.
Adults born before 1957: In general, adults born before 1957 are likely to have had or been exposed to measles during childhood and so are typically presumed to be immune. Those born prior to 1957 are not routinely recommended to receive booster doses of MMR vaccine.