Measles Update

The U.S. is in the midst of the largest measles epidemic in the last 25 years so naturally we are receiving a lot of questions about it. The majority of cases are in unvaccinated children, but some adults who have received 1 vaccine also make up about 10% of the cases.

To keep it in perspective, California has had 40 cases with 8 of them occurring in LA and Orange County in 2019. While not as bad as the situation in New York, it is still around us. Here are the latest CDC recommendations for who needs a booster:

• If you were born before 1957, you do not need a measles booster because you were naturally exposed as a child, and are considered immune

• If you were born between 1957-1989 and received 1 dose of the live vaccine, you are likely immune (1 dose is 93% effective, 2 doses are 97% effective). If you are not sure if you received the live vaccine or of your vaccination status, a blood test can be done to check for immunity. Many people vaccinated before 1968 received an inactivated and ineffective measles vaccine.

• If you were born after 1989 and received 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, you are considered immune and do not need further testing or a booster

• If you plan to travel internationally, are a health care worker, or a college/graduate student, you are considered higher risk and need 2 doses of the MMR vaccine

Here at Elevated Health we can draw your blood to check for immunity, and we offer the MMR vaccine as well. The cash price for the blood test to check immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella is $45. The price for immunity to measles only is $20. The cash price for the MMR vaccine is $80. These services may be covered by your insurance as well. Please call us if you have any further questions regarding measles or would like to schedule an appointment for testing or vaccination.

About the Author

Paul McKinley is a well-trained, experienced, and accredited family physician offering a range of specialties including medicine management, outpatient procedures, sports medicine, and general health concerns. Emphasizing preventive alternatives to treatment and care, he adapts his approach to each patient – making it personalized and unique to their condition. Valuing time spent with patients and real relationships; he finds unique opportunities to help them live healthier lives.

With expertise in private practice and as a Medical Director in Chicago for Iora Health, a leader in direct primary care services; Paul is well versed in assisting patients in both the office and hospital. Paul is also trained in the science of longevity medicine program, which aims to prevent chronic diseases and increase the healthspan of a patient.