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Should I Get a Measles Vaccine as an Adult?

April 08, 2025

You probably got the measles vaccine as a kid. But with recent outbreaks, you might be wondering – am I still protected?

We asked an expert whether a measles vaccine is necessary for adults and who should consider getting one.

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For most adults, a measles vaccine isn’t necessary.

In fact, some older adults may have never been vaccinated, but were likely exposed to the disease as a child.

“Most adults born before 1957 are considered immune, except for healthcare workers,” explains Ulysses Wu, MD, an infectious disease specialist at Hartford HealthCare. “For those born in 1957 or later, at least one dose of the vaccine is recommended unless you have documented immunity.”

You’re considered immune if you:

  • Have written documentation of receiving the measles vaccine.
  • Have a blood test confirming immunity.
  • Previously had a measles infection, confirmed by a doctor.

> Related: 7 Health Tips for Your 30s

When adults should consider being vaccinated.

If you don’t have proof of immunity, you should receive two doses of the vaccine if you fall into one of these groups:

  • Healthcare workers
  • College students
  • International travelers
  • Household or close contacts of immunocompromised individuals

What to do if there’s an outbreak.

An outbreak occurs when measles is actively spreading in a specific area or group. Examples include a school, community, hospital, airport or any close contact environment.

During an outbreak, adults who are not considered immune should get two doses of the vaccine at least 28 days apart.

“The first dose should be given within 72 hours of exposure,” adds Dr. Wu.

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The immunity from the measles vaccine is lifelong – but not perfect.

“The measles vaccine provides lifelong immunity for most people, but breakthrough cases have been reported,” says Dr. Wu.

And like any vaccine, the measles vaccine can have side effects. According to Dr. Wu, these can include:

  • Fever
  • Rash
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Joint pain
  • Low platelet count
  • Hypersensitivity reactions

Dr. Wu notes that the vaccine is also not recommended for certain people, including those who are pregnant or severely immunocompromised.