Measles Vaccine: 5 Things Parents Should Know

2025 Measles Outbreak: A Quick Look at the Numbers

As of March 2025, there have already been three measles outbreaks in the U.S., with 93% of cases tied to these outbreaks. 

With outbreaks reported by state health departments in Texas, California, New York, and New Jersey, it’s clear that measles spreads fast when vaccination rates drop. The numbers tell the story though: nearly all the cases involve people who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated.

This current measles outbreak data highlights just how important the MMR vaccine is for keeping your child and your community safe. With measles making a comeback, understanding how the vaccine works and why it’s so essential is more important than ever. 

Here’s the first thing every parent should know.

How the Measles Vaccine Works

The measles vaccine is part of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella).

The MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and widely available. It’s been around for decades and has saved countless lives.

It’s a live attenuated vaccine, which means it contains a very weak version of the virus. This version isn’t strong enough to cause measles, but it’s powerful enough to help your child’s immune system learn how to fight the real thing.

The vaccine is typically given in two doses:

• First dose: 12 to 15 months old
• Second dose: 4 to 6 years old

With both doses, the vaccine is about 97% effective at preventing measles. It’s important to follow the recommended schedule for full protection.

Why the Measles Vaccine is So Important

Measles isn’t just a rash and a fever: it can cause serious complications like pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and even death in rare cases.

In fact, before the vaccine became widely available in 1963, measles killed about 500 people each year in the U.S. and hospitalized thousands more.

Measles Outbreaks in 2025 (So Far)

With recent measles outbreaks in Texas and other states, it’s clear that the virus can spread quickly in places with lower vaccination rates. Measles is so contagious that 90% of unvaccinated people who are exposed will get it.

By getting your child vaccinated you’re also protecting babies, people with weak immune systems, and others who can’t get vaccinated.

Common Side Effects of the Measles Vaccine

Most kids handle the MMR vaccine just fine. The most common side effects are mild and go away quickly:

• Low fever
• Temporary, mild rash
• Soreness (at the injection site)

More serious side effects are extremely rare. Some kids might experience a fever-related seizure, but these don’t cause long-term problems.

Ultimately, know that the risks from the vaccine are much lower than the risks of getting measles. If you’re worried, your child’s doctor can help answer your questions.

Myths and Facts About the Measles Vaccine

There’s a lot of misinformation about vaccines, especially the MMR vaccine.

One of the most common myths is that the MMR vaccine causes autism. This claim been thoroughly debunked by dozens of studies. The study that started this rumor was actually later retracted and proven to be fraudulent.

Keep in mind, vaccines go through safety testing before approval. Skipping vaccines based on myths can leave your child, and your community, at risk for serious diseases like measles.

What to Do if Your Child Misses a Dose

Life happens, and sometimes kids miss their shots. The good news is that it’s not too late to get back on track.

If your child missed a dose, talk to their healthcare provider about scheduling the next dose as soon as possible. Even if it’s a bit late, getting vaccinated is still better than skipping it altogether.

When Do Babies Get the Measles Vaccine?

Babies typically get their first dose of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) at 12 to 15 months old. This timing is important because, before this age, most infants still have some protection from their mother’s antibodies, especially if the mother was vaccinated or had measles herself.

Does the Measles Vaccine Last for Life?

For most people, the MMR vaccine provides lifelong protection against measles after the standard two doses. Studies show that immunity from the vaccine doesn’t fade significantly over time. That’s why boosters aren’t usually recommended for people who completed the full two-dose series.

In rare cases, a few people may not develop full immunity after vaccination. This is why maintaining high community vaccination rates is so important, (especially now during multiple outbreaks), to protect those who don’t respond fully to the vaccine.

Do Adults Need a Measles Booster?

We discussed kids getting the MMR vaccine, but do adults need the measles booster? It all depends on when an adult got vaccinated for measles.

Most adults who received two doses of the MMR vaccine as children don’t need a measles booster. The standard two-dose series is about 97% effective at providing long-term protection against measles.

But some adults may still need a booster in certain situations like these:

• Born in 1957 or later and unvaccinated: If you haven’t received the MMR vaccine or aren’t sure about your vaccination status, it’s a good idea to get at least one dose.
• Received a single dose of the inactivated measles vaccine between 1963 and 1967.
• At higher risk including healthcare workers, international travelers and college students  

Not sure if you received the MMR vaccine? A blood test can check for measles antibodies. A healthcare provider at Summit Health can help you decide if antibody testing, or a booster is necessary.

How to Get the MMR Vaccine at Summit Health

If you’re ready to protect your child, or even yourself, against measles, mumps and rubella, getting the MMR vaccine at Summit Health is simple and convenient. Make an appointment with our pediatricians today.

We offer the MMR vaccine at our primary care offices and urgent care locations, making it easy to fit vaccination into your busy schedule.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Schedule an appointment: You can book an appointment online, by phone, or by visiting a Summit Health location near you. If your child needs a catch-up dose or you’re unsure about your own vaccination status, our healthcare providers can help you figure out what’s needed.
2. Walk-in options: For busy parents, our urgent care centers, (especially CityMD) also offer the MMR booster on a walk-in basis. No need to plan weeks ahead; just stop by when it’s convenient.
3. Talk to your provider: If you have questions about the vaccine or potential side effects, our healthcare providers can walk you through everything. We believe in giving you the information you need to make the best choices for your family’s health.

With flexible scheduling and expert care, Summit Health makes getting vaccinated easy and stress-free. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment. Protecting your family from measles has never been simpler (or more important).