MMR Vaccination for International Travel to Measles-Endemic Areas
Yes, an additional dose of MMR vaccine is recommended for individuals vaccinated in 1979 or 1990 who are traveling to areas where measles is prevalent. 1
Assessment of Previous Vaccination Status
- Individuals vaccinated in 1979 or 1990 have likely received one or two doses of MMR vaccine, but protection may wane over time, particularly when traveling to high-risk areas 1
- While MMR vaccine generally provides long-lasting immunity, the risk of exposure during international travel to measles-endemic regions warrants additional protection 1
- Persons who received a vaccine of unknown type after 1967 should receive a second dose before undertaking international travel, even if they previously received appropriate vaccination 1
Recommendations for International Travelers
- The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) specifically recommends that travelers to areas with increased measles risk should be immune to measles before leaving the United States 1
- Consideration should be given to providing a dose of measles vaccine to persons born during or after 1957 who travel abroad and who have not previously received two doses of measles vaccine 1
- Revaccination is particularly important when the risk for exposure to natural measles virus is increased, such as during international travel 1
Rationale for Additional Dose
- Even with previous vaccination, the risk of measles infection increases in areas with high prevalence 1
- An additional dose provides a boost to immunity that may have waned over time since the original vaccinations in 1979 and 1990 1
- Studies show that while MMR antibodies may wane over time, a booster dose can restore protection levels, particularly important for travel to endemic areas 2
Safety of Additional MMR Dose
- Side effects tend to occur among vaccine recipients who are nonimmune and are very rare after revaccination 1
- No evidence exists that persons who have previously received mumps vaccine (killed or live) are at increased risk for local or systemic reactions upon receiving MMR or live mumps vaccine 1
- The risk of adverse events after an additional dose is minimal compared to the risk of contracting measles in an endemic area 1
Common Pitfalls and Considerations
- Failing to recognize that international travel to measles-endemic areas represents a significant risk factor that warrants revaccination 1
- Assuming that vaccination from 30+ years ago provides sufficient protection without a booster dose when traveling to high-risk areas 1
- Not recognizing that even when MMR antibodies wane, an additional dose can restore protection against disease 2
Implementation
- The additional MMR dose should be administered before travel to ensure adequate time for immune response 3
- A single dose of MMR vaccine is sufficient as a booster for previously vaccinated individuals 1, 4
- No special precautions are needed for this additional dose beyond standard vaccine administration protocols 3