From the Guidelines
Most people over 60 in the United States do not need a second measles vaccination. Adults born before 1957 are generally considered immune to measles because they likely had the disease as children, providing lifelong immunity 1. For those born in 1957 or later who don't have evidence of immunity (such as documentation of vaccination or laboratory confirmation of prior disease), one dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is typically sufficient. However, certain high-risk groups over 60 may need a second dose, including:
- Healthcare workers
- International travelers to areas with measles outbreaks
- People in communities experiencing an outbreak The reason most older adults don't need revaccination is that natural infection, which was common before widespread vaccination began in the 1960s, typically confers stronger and more durable immunity than vaccination 1. If you're unsure about your immunity status, you can request a blood test to check for measles antibodies or simply get an MMR vaccine, as there's no harm in receiving an additional dose if you're already immune.
According to the recommended adult immunization schedule, a routine second dose of MMR vaccine is recommended for adults who are students in postsecondary educational institutions, work in a health-care facility, or plan to travel internationally 1. Additionally, persons who received inactivated (killed) measles vaccine or measles vaccine of unknown type from 1963 to 1967 should be revaccinated with 2 doses of MMR vaccine 1.
It's essential to note that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) provide guidelines for adult immunization, including recommendations for MMR vaccination 1. These guidelines are based on the latest scientific evidence and are intended to protect public health.
In summary, while most people over 60 do not need a second measles vaccination, certain high-risk groups may require a second dose, and it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action. The decision to administer a second dose of MMR vaccine should be based on individual risk factors and medical history.
From the Research
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccination for Individuals Over 60 Years of Age
- The current recommendations for MMR vaccination do not specifically address individuals over 60 years of age 2.
- The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends 2 doses of MMR vaccine for children and adults at high risk for exposure and transmission, but only 1 dose for other adults aged ≥18 years 2.
- There is no evidence to suggest that individuals over 60 years of age require a second MMR vaccination, but they may be at risk for measles, mumps, and rubella if they have not previously received two doses of the vaccine or have not had the diseases 3.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children receive two doses of MMR vaccine, but does not provide guidance for individuals over 60 years of age 4, 5.
- A recent study found that a third dose of measles-containing vaccine can induce robust immune responses against measles in young seronegative healthcare workers who had previous two-dose measles vaccination, but this study did not address individuals over 60 years of age 6.
Special Considerations
- Individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection may require special consideration for MMR vaccination, including revaccination with 2 doses of MMR vaccine once effective antiretroviral therapy has been established 2.
- Healthcare personnel and international travelers may be at higher risk for exposure to measles, mumps, and rubella and may require additional doses of MMR vaccine 2, 3.