Do adults need a measles booster? How to check your MMR status

Concerns & risks

Measles is in the news, you don't have vaccination records and you want to know whether you need a shot.

Causes & evidence

The CDC says adults without evidence of immunity should get at least one dose of MMR vaccine. Certain adults at higher risk, including college students, healthcare workers and international travellers, should have two doses. Evidence of immunity includes written documentation of vaccination, a lab test showing immunity or past lab-confirmed disease, or being born before 1957. People who received an inactivated measles vaccine between 1963 and 1967, or a vaccine of unknown type in that period, should be revaccinated. Two doses of MMR are about 97% effective at preventing measles. MMR isn't given during pregnancy.

Measles is very contagious, and outbreaks are more likely where vaccination rates are lower. Talk to a doctor if you're pregnant, immunocompromised or planning a pregnancy.

Assuming you're protected without checking records can leave a gap, especially before international travel.

What to do

1. Look for records with parents, past doctors, schools or your state immunisation registry.
2. If you find documentation of two doses, you're generally considered protected.
3. If you can't find records, ask your doctor about getting a dose or a blood test for immunity.
4. Check whether you're in a group that should have two doses, such as travellers.
5. Keep a copy of your record once you have it.

Common mistakes:

• Assuming childhood shots without records
• Waiting until just before a trip
• Getting MMR while pregnant instead of before or after

ReportSpeedMan tip: Getting an extra MMR dose when records are missing is generally considered safe, so lack of paperwork shouldn't stop you from getting protected.

What I would actually do

I'd spend 15 minutes looking for records, and if I couldn't find any, ask my doctor about a dose rather than chasing paperwork.

The trade-off people miss: a blood test can confirm immunity but takes a visit and time; a dose is often quicker and is generally considered safe.

Proof that it worked

You have a record of two MMR doses, or a dose or test from your doctor.

Quick FAQ

Do I need a booster if I had two doses?
Generally no.

Is an extra dose harmful?
Generally considered safe.

Can I get MMR before travel?
Yes, ideally at least two weeks before.

Wrap-up: Find your records or ask for a dose or blood test. Most adults need nothing more, but it's worth confirming, especially before travel.

Wiki: Common Cold vs. Flu and Sleep Basics and Insomnia.

Do adults need a measles booster: where the facts come from

• CDC: Measles vaccine recommendations
• MedlinePlus: Measles