From the Guidelines
Older adults who were previously vaccinated against measles generally do not need additional measles vaccines, as the measles vaccine provides long-lasting immunity. The recommendation against routine revaccination for previously vaccinated older adults is based on evidence showing that immunity from proper measles vaccination is generally lifelong, making additional doses unnecessary for most people 1. However, certain older adults born between 1957 and 1967 may have received an earlier, less effective version of the vaccine and might benefit from revaccination, especially during outbreaks or if traveling to areas with high measles transmission 1. Some key points to consider include:
- Adults born before 1957 are typically considered immune due to natural exposure to the disease 1.
- If an older adult is unsure of their vaccination status or immunity, a blood test can check for measles antibodies to determine if vaccination is needed.
- For those who do require vaccination, the standard MMR vaccine is given as a single dose, with minimal side effects typically including soreness at the injection site or mild fever. It's also important to note that the measles vaccine is generally well-tolerated, and the benefits of vaccination in preventing measles and its complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis, outweigh the risks for most people 1. In terms of specific guidance, the recommended adult immunization schedule suggests that adults born in 1957 or later should have documentation of 1 or more doses of MMR vaccine unless they have a medical contraindication to the vaccine, or laboratory evidence of immunity to each of the 3 diseases 1. Overall, the decision to vaccinate or revaccinate an older adult against measles should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account their individual risk factors and medical history.
From the Research
Measles Vaccination for Older Adults
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends 2 doses of MMR vaccine for adults at high risk for exposure and transmission, and 1 dose for other adults aged ≥18 years 2.
- For adults who have previously been vaccinated, there is no clear recommendation for an additional dose of measles vaccine, but the CDC does recommend 2 doses for adults at high risk for exposure and transmission 2.
- A study published in 2011 recommends 2 doses of MMR vaccine for all adults who do not have immunization or contraindications, but does not specifically address older adults who have previously been vaccinated 3.
- More recent studies have focused on the safety and immunogenicity of the MMR vaccine in children and adults, but do not provide clear guidance on whether older adults who have previously been vaccinated should receive an additional dose 4, 5.
- A 2025 review of measles epidemiology and vaccination notes the importance of vaccination in preventing transmission and complications, but does not specifically address the question of whether older adults who have previously been vaccinated should receive an additional dose 6.
Key Considerations
- The CDC recommends 2 doses of MMR vaccine for adults at high risk for exposure and transmission, but does not provide clear guidance on whether older adults who have previously been vaccinated should receive an additional dose 2.
- The safety and immunogenicity of the MMR vaccine have been well established in children and adults, but more research is needed to determine whether an additional dose is necessary for older adults who have previously been vaccinated 4, 5.
- Public health measures, including vaccination, are critical in preventing transmission and complications of measles, particularly among young children and immunocompromised individuals 6.