Do adults require a measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine booster?

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Last updated: March 3, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Guidelines

Most adults do not require a measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine booster, but certain high-risk groups should consider additional protection. If you were born before 1957, you're likely immune due to natural exposure 1. If you were born between 1957 and 1989, you should have documentation of at least one MMR vaccine; those who received only one dose during this period might consider getting a second dose for complete protection 2. Anyone born after 1989 should have received two MMR doses as part of routine childhood vaccination. You can check your immunity status through a blood test if uncertain about your vaccination history. Certain high-risk groups should consider additional protection:

  • Healthcare workers
  • International travelers to areas with measles outbreaks
  • College students should have documentation of two MMR doses 3. The vaccine is highly effective, with two doses providing about 97% protection. Measles is extremely contagious and can cause serious complications, which is why maintaining immunity is important, especially as cases rise nationwide due to decreasing vaccination rates. If you're unsure about your vaccination status, consult your healthcare provider who can help determine if you need vaccination.

From the Research

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine Booster for Adults

  • The need for a measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine booster in adults is a topic of discussion due to the re-emergence of measles outbreaks 4, 5.
  • According to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), adults at high risk for exposure and transmission, such as students, healthcare personnel, and international travelers, are recommended to receive two doses of MMR vaccine 6.
  • However, for other adults, the recommendation is for one dose of MMR vaccine 6.
  • A study published in 2019 analyzed data from the national monitoring system KV-Impfsurveillance and found that the measles vaccination incidence increased from 0.4% in 2009 to ≥1.0% annually since 2013, with regional and sex differences 7.
  • Another study published in 2016 investigated the immunogenicity of a third dose of MMR vaccine in young adults and found that most subjects were seropositive before receipt of the third dose, and very few had a secondary immune response after receipt of the third dose 8.
  • The study concluded that there was no compelling data to support a routine third dose of MMR vaccine 8.
  • The protective antibodies derived from vaccination might decrease gradually, and the risk of measles infection in young adults is increasing regardless of international traveling 4.
  • Some people who were not immune and they need to get their measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine to prevent measles outbreaks 4.

Key Findings

  • Adults born after 1970 with less than two doses of MMR vaccine in childhood are recommended to receive a measles vaccine booster 7.
  • The measles vaccination incidence is higher in western than eastern federal states and higher among women than men 7.
  • The ap vaccination coverage is 32.4%, and the proportion of exclusively Td vaccinated adults fell from 84% in 2007 to 24% from 2013 onwards 7.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.