From the Guidelines
Adults born in 1957 or later should consider getting an MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine booster shot, as they may not have received the second dose of the vaccine during childhood, which was not implemented until 1989. This recommendation is based on the most recent evidence from the Annals of Internal Medicine, 1. To determine if you need a booster, check your immunization records or consult with your healthcare provider who can perform antibody testing to assess your immunity.
Key Points to Consider
- The MMR vaccine is a single injection, identical to the initial vaccine, and side effects are typically mild, including soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or mild rash.
- Certain groups should prioritize getting boosted, including:
- Healthcare workers
- International travelers
- Those in communities experiencing outbreaks
- People with severely compromised immune systems, pregnant women, or those with severe allergies to vaccine components should not receive the MMR vaccine.
Evidence-Based Recommendation
The evidence suggests that adults born in 1957 or later may have incomplete protection against measles, mumps, and rubella, and a booster shot can increase immunity rates, particularly against measles, from approximately 93% to 97% 1. However, the most recent and highest quality study, 1, provides the strongest evidence for this recommendation.
Important Considerations
It is essential to note that the recommendation for an MMR booster shot is based on the individual's birth year and vaccination history, rather than their current age. Additionally, the booster shot is not a routine recommendation for all adults, but rather for those who may be at higher risk of exposure or have incomplete protection against measles, mumps, and rubella.
From the Research
MMR Vaccine Booster Eligibility
The following information is based on studies regarding the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
- Adults born before 1957 are generally considered to be immune to measles, mumps, and rubella 2.
- However, adults born between 1957 and 1989 who have only received one dose of the MMR vaccine may not have adequate immunity and should consider a booster shot 2.
- There is no specific evidence to suggest that adults born after 1989 need an MMR booster, as they would have likely received two doses of the vaccine in childhood 3, 4, 5.
- It is essential to note that the need for an MMR booster shot depends on various factors, including the individual's vaccination history and medical conditions.
Key Findings
- A study published in 1989 found that a two-dose schedule of MMR vaccine was effective in reinforcing immunity in children who did not respond satisfactorily to one dose of MMR 2.
- Later studies have confirmed the effectiveness of two-dose MMR vaccine schedules in providing long-term protection against measles, mumps, and rubella 3, 4, 5.