How Many Minnesotans Need To Get Vaccinated For Measles AGAIN?
If you've been hearing a lot about measles in the news lately, that's because 2019 is set to be a record-breaking year for the virus. One thing about the measles? It's very contagious. Luckily, I received the vaccine as a child. I vaguely recall getting a lollipop and being told I was a big boy for being super tough.
And unless you're one of those tinfoil hat-wearing crazy people who believes everything they heard on some weirdo's YouTube channel, you were likely vaccinated at a young age, too. But since 1989, the CDC has recommended getting a second shot of the vaccine to increase its effectiveness from 93% to 97%. And wouldn't you know it, I might be one of the people who needs to get a second shot. Lucky me!
So how do you know if you need another dose? Here's a helpful guide courtesy of Lifehacker:
You DO NOT need a vaccine if:
- You know you've had measles
- You were born before 1957
- A lab test has shown that you're immune to measles
If you've already had one dose of the measles vaccine, that's enough if:
- You're a preschool-aged child who is scheduled to get a second dose before starting school
- You're an adult who has a low risk of measles exposure
You SHOULD get a second measles dose if:
- You're a school aged kid
- You're an adult who works in health care, travels, goes to college, or has a high risk of measles exposure
Still not sure? It's not a bad idea to get a second shot anyway, but you should hold off if you're pregnant or have a weakened immune system. The CDC has all the info you need to know about getting a measles vaccine here.