Measles Information and Vaccine Guidelines

The recent increase in measles cases across the United States have many families concerned. While more than 95% of cases have been in unvaccinated individuals, we want to be sure you are aware of the symptoms to watch for, and to stress the importance of vaccination. A single dose can be 93% effective and two doses is 97% protective.

Measles is more than a rash, it can be dangerous, especially for babies and young children. While the most recognizable measles symptom is a very high fever accompanied by a red or brownish blotchy rash, others typically appear first:

Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
Fever
Rash breaks out 3-5 days after symptoms begin

Vaccination is the Best Protection

The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing measles. The CDC recommends that children receive:

The first dose at 12-15 months of age
The second dose at 4-6 years of age

Additional CDC Guidelines:

Patients born before 1957 are considered naturally immune based on likelihood they most likely had or were exposed to measles in childhood.
Patients born after 1957 should receive 2 doses of MMR vaccine.
Patients are considered immunized if they have had 2 doses of MMR vaccine (1 dose age 12 to 15months and again 1 dose after age 4)
One dose is 93% effective and two doses is 97% effective

If your child has not yet been vaccinated or is due for their next dose, we strongly encourage you to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. By ensuring your child is vaccinated, you are not only protecting them but also helping to safeguard vulnerable members of our community. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.

For more information, please visit:

healthychildren.org

Please call our office at (973) 827-1918,

to your child's next visit.

Thank you for helping keep our community safe.

DISCLAIMER: The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained in this communication are for informational purposes only. No material in this email is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this e-mail.