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General Measles Questions
General Measles Questions
1. What are the symptoms of measles?
- The initial symptoms of measles include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A few days later, a red, blotchy rash typically appears, starting at the hairline and spreading down the body.
- Measles is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
- The best way to protect your child is by ensuring they receive the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. The first dose is typically given at 12 months of age, and a second dose is given at 4-6 years old.
- Yes, if your child hasn’t yet received the MMR vaccine, it’s important to schedule an appointment to get vaccinated. This will help prevent the spread of measles and protect your child.
- While the MMR vaccine is very effective, no vaccine is 100% protective. However, those who are vaccinated are much less likely to experience severe illness if they do contract measles.
- If you suspect your child has measles, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. They may need to schedule a special visit to avoid exposing others in the waiting room.
- Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. Early diagnosis and supportive care are important.
For more information
https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html
When do kids get the measles vaccine?
When do kids get the measles vaccine?
The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is recommended for all children. In the US, the first dose is typically given at 12 months of age, and the second dose is usually given between ages 4-6.
Can my child get the first dose of the MMR vaccine before age 12 months?
Can my child get the first dose of the MMR vaccine before age 12 months?
Children between 6 months of age and 12 months of age may receive one dose of MMR vaccine. This is recommended for international travel. Because the long term immunity from the vaccine in this age group is variable, children who get a dose of MMR before 12 months old need a dose after they turn 12 months as their first "official" dose for school. Getting a dose off MMR before age six months is not an official recommendation in our area at this time. There is no official recommendation to get a dose at these ages for domestic travel at this time. Based on this information, if you would like to get a dose of MMR for your child in this age range, please contact the office for scheduling options.
Can my child get the second dose of the MMR vaccine before age 4?
Can my child get the second dose of the MMR vaccine before age 4?
Yes, while the official recommendation is to administer the second dose between ages 4-6, children can receive the second dose as early as 28 days after the first dose. Getting the second dose before age four is not an official recommendation in our area at this time, but it is safe and effective. The second dose given this way is a valid dose for school.
Should I get an MMR for my kids before we go on spring break or other travel?
Should I get an MMR for my kids before we go on spring break or other travel?
There are no official recommendations to get an MMR for domestic travel (travel within the US). We recommend a travel visit about 4 to 6 weeks before planned international travel to review the specific travel guidance for your location, but in regards to MMR, the advice is simple. Completing the MMR series is recommended for all international travel locations, including North American international travel.
How do I schedule an MMR vaccine visit for my child?
How do I schedule an MMR vaccine visit for my child?
If your child is due for a well check, schedule a well check by phone or MyChart. If you are traveling internationally, you likely need a travel visit, please call to set up a travel visit. If your child is not due for a well check, and you are not traveling internationally but your child is eligible for a MMR based on the above, and you would like to schedule, please call the office to set up a vaccine-only appointment. Please note that the doctor will come in to review the vaccine information with you at a vaccine-only appointment, but we do not schedule or block doctor time for vaccine-only appointments, so if you have questions about another health issue or more than a simple question about risks and benefits of a vaccine, we ask that you schedule an appointment with the doctor.
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