Do individuals born before 1955 need to worry about measles immunity?

Measles Immunity for Individuals Born Before 1955

Individuals born before 1955 are generally considered immune to measles and do not need vaccination unless they are in specific high-risk groups. 1

Understanding Measles Immunity in Older Adults

• Birth before 1957 is widely accepted as evidence of measles immunity by the CDC and Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) 1
• This recommendation is based on the fact that measles was so widespread before the introduction of vaccines that virtually all individuals were exposed and developed natural immunity
• Natural infection with measles virus confers lifelong immunity 2

Risk Assessment for Those Born Before 1955

General Population

• For most individuals born before 1955 who are not in high-risk groups, no measles vaccination is needed
• Serologic studies indicate that 91-95% of people born before 1957 have detectable measles antibodies 1

High-Risk Groups Requiring Special Consideration

• Healthcare workers: Even those born before 1957 should be considered for vaccination if they lack other evidence of immunity 1, 3

  • During 1985-1992,27% of measles cases among healthcare workers occurred in those born before 1957 1
  • Healthcare facilities should consider recommending MMR vaccine to unvaccinated workers born before 1957 who lack laboratory evidence of immunity or history of physician-diagnosed measles

• International travelers: Should ensure immunity before travel to countries where measles is endemic 1, 3

• During outbreaks: Vaccination may be recommended for those born before 1957 who lack serologic evidence of immunity 1

Evidence of Immunity

Acceptable evidence of measles immunity includes:

• Birth before 1957 (for general population)
• Laboratory evidence of immunity
• Documentation of adequate vaccination 1, 4

When to Consider Testing or Vaccination for Pre-1955 Individuals

1. Healthcare workers: Consider serologic testing or vaccination regardless of birth year
2. During measles outbreaks: Consider vaccination if in an affected setting
3. International travel: Consider vaccination before travel to high-risk areas
4. Immunocompromised status: Discuss with healthcare provider as special considerations apply

Potential Complications of Measles

For the rare pre-1955 individual who might contract measles:

• Complications occur in 10-40% of patients 5
• Higher risk of severe disease in older adults
• Potential complications include pneumonia, encephalitis, and secondary bacterial infections 6
• Mortality rate is 1-3 per 1,000 cases 7

Key Takeaway

For most individuals born before 1955, the risk of measles is extremely low due to presumed natural immunity. However, those in high-risk settings (healthcare, international travel, outbreak areas) should discuss their immunity status with their healthcare provider, as vaccination or serologic testing may be warranted in these specific circumstances.