The Massachusetts Medical Society is concerned about reported cases of measles in Europe and at least six states and potential exposures at two large United States airports and wishes to remind all patients in the Commonwealth to do their part to protect themselves and their communities from contracting and spreading measles.
Because of a successful vaccination campaign that effectively eliminated measles in the United States in 2000, many people may not be aware that measles, which is transmitted via exposure to contact with airborne droplets, is highly contagious and can lead to serious and life-threatening complications. Children and those with compromised immune systems are especially at risk.
As a community, our best defense against the spread of measles remains ensuring that children receive their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations following Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines – two doses, one at 12 to 15 months, the next between the ages of 4 and 6. The vaccine is safe and highly effective and generally induces lifelong immunity. If you, or a child for whom you care have not been fully vaccinated or you have questions about the vaccine, we urge you to speak to a trusted health care provider as soon as possible.
-Barbara S. Spivak, MD, President, Massachusetts Medical Society
