Yet in the current debate over vaccines, and whether or not they work, the measles virus is an outlier. The virus has remained unchanged for centuries, and the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, has been highly effective since its introduction. Because it protects individuals for life after two doses, it is the most cost-effective vaccine to prevent infection with measles.
Both health advocacy and public health experts urge that the MMR vaccine be widely administered at ages one and four. When protocol is followed, about 97% of people become fully immune after getting the two shots. In the United States, the implementation of the MMR vaccine eliminated measles from the US in 2000. In order for herd immunity to work and prevent outbreaks from occurring, about 95% of a community needs to be vaccinated.
Though many infectious diseases, like whooping cough, require booster shots every so often as immunity fades, measles is not one of them. The immunity produced by the MMR vaccine is lifelong. Tetanus boosters are recommended every ten years because while you may be immune to tetanus today, that immunity will wane with time.
“The true value of the vaccine can only be achieved when very high percentages of people are vaccinated, even when disease risk is low. People acting in their own self-interest by avoiding vaccines puts us all at greater risk.” – David Cutler, MD
Populations at risk—like the elderly, immune-compromised, or healthcare workers as examples—might need booster doses, should they be identified as having insufficient immunity. This includes people born before 1957, people vaccinated with an inactivated measles vaccine before 1968, and immunocompromised people.
Gina Posner, MD, highlights that while most people receive their vaccinations as children and retain immunity into adulthood, there are exceptions.
“Once immune from either the vaccine or prior infection, your measles immunity persists.” – David Cutler, MD
Unfortunately, even with a vaccine as effective as the MMR, misinformation still spreads about its safety and need. Dr. Posner is worried about too much contradictory information coming from trusted leaders.
She further explains how herd immunity is incredibly important to protect those who may not be able to be vaccinated.
“Most people get the vaccine as young kids (age 1 and 4) and have it lifelong.” – Gina Posner, MD
Even in extreme cases of measles, there are proven treatments. Two doses of vitamin A, for example, greatly reduce the risk of complications. It is important to note that there is no evidence that vitamin A prevents infection with the measles virus.
“It is both disappointing and dangerous that there is so much conflicting and incorrect information from the current U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services regarding measles and the MMR vaccine.” – Gina Posner, MD
The measles virus is a jaw-droppingly effective public health advocate when vaccination levels are insufficient. Epidemiologists, including Dr. Cutler, find it essential to maintain at least a 95% rate of vaccination in any community. This elevated level of immunity halts outbreaks by limiting the pool of individuals who are susceptible to the virus.
“That still does leave 3% as non-responders which is why we need herd immunity to protect both those people and ones who really can’t have it.” – Gina Posner, MD
In severe cases of measles, treatment options exist, such as administering two doses of vitamin A to prevent complications. However, it is important to note that there is no evidence that vitamin A prevents infection with the measles virus.
The measles virus poses a significant public health challenge when vaccination rates drop. Epidemiologists like Dr. Cutler estimate that maintaining a vaccination rate of 95% within a community will prevent outbreaks by ensuring there are not enough susceptible individuals to spread the virus.
“Epidemiologists estimate that if 95% of people in a community are vaccinated, then there will not be enough susceptible people to prolong an outbreak.” – David Cutler, MD
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