From the Guidelines
Measles Antibody Titers in Adults During a Measles Outbreak in Texas
Adults in Texas experiencing a measles outbreak should have their measles immunity checked by obtaining a measles titer, also known as a measles IgG test 1.
- If the titer is negative or equivocal, or if the individual is unsure of their vaccination status, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends administering the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
- The MMR vaccine should be given in two doses, separated by at least 28 days, with the second dose considered a booster 1.
- For individuals born in 1957 or later, two doses of MMR vaccine are recommended, as they may not have acquired natural immunity from measles infection during childhood 1.
- For individuals born before 1957, one dose of MMR vaccine is recommended, as they are likely to have acquired natural immunity from measles infection during childhood, but up to 9.3% of persons born before 1957 may not be immune to measles 1.
- The MMR vaccine is typically administered via intramuscular injection, with a dose of 0.5 mL.
- Adults with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications, should consult their healthcare provider for individualized guidance on measles vaccination 1.
- During a measles outbreak, evidence of adequate vaccination for adults born during or after 1957 who are at risk for measles exposure and infection consists of two doses of measles-containing vaccine separated by at least 28 days, with the first dose administered no earlier than the first birthday 1.
From the Research
Measles Antibody Titers in Adults
There are no research papers that directly report the measles antibody (immunoglobulin) titers in adults during a measles outbreak in Texas.
Relevant Studies
- A study from 1992 2 reported a measles outbreak at a state university in Texas, but it did not provide information on measles antibody titers in adults.
- Other studies 3, 4, 5, 6 discussed measles outbreaks, vaccination, and immunity, but they did not specifically address measles antibody titers in adults during a measles outbreak in Texas.
Key Findings
- Measles outbreaks can occur among previously immunized individuals and unimmunized populations 2, 3.
- Measles vaccination is effective, cost-effective, and safe 3.
- Health care professionals play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing measles cases, preventing spread during outbreaks, and promoting vaccination uptake 3.
- Measles population immunity profiles can be estimated using updated methods and tools to identify and fill immunity gaps caused by low vaccination coverage 5.
Measles Outbreak Risk Assessment
- A study from 2021 6 developed a systematic approach to address measles risk in adult solid organ transplant candidates and recipients, including identification of nonimmune adults, education, and risk reduction strategies. However, it did not report measles antibody titers in adults during a measles outbreak in Texas.