Seniors and the Risk of Measles

Seniors & the Risk of Measles: The risk is low, but it’s best to make sure you’ve been vaccinated

 

There’s been a lot of discussion in the news these days about the recent nationwide outbreak of Measles. It’s a respiratory disease caused by a virus, and it’s the most deadly of all childhood rash/fever illnesses. But can seniors be affected by it too? The short answer is, it’s rare; children are primarily at risk. However, for seniors and children alike, getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent contracting a number of illnesses.

As we know, it’s important to receive vaccinations per the recommended vaccination schedule. Most important for seniors are the vaccinations for shingles, the Flu, Pneumonia, Chicken Pox, Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis. For older adults with certain medical conditions, the CDC advises additional vaccinations, including: Hepatitis A and B, and Meningitis.

Recommendations regarding older adults receiving the Measle/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) vaccine vary, though the issue is becoming a greater concern, given the increasing numbers of unvaccinated American children who are now contracting measles. According to the CDC, people born before 1957 were exposed to measles epidemics and have thus likely developed an immunity to the disease, so they do not need to undergo vaccination when they’re older. However, individuals who received an inactivated measles vaccine in the 1960s, or were never vaccinated when they were a child, are recommended to get another round of shots, as is anyone born after 1957 who has no record of ever receiving the MMR vaccine.

However, according to vaccines.gov, anyone born during or after 1957 who has not had measles or been vaccinated is at risk and should get at least one dose of MMR vaccine. Two doses are recommended for adults who are at higher risk, such as:

• College students, trade school students, or other students beyond high school
• Those who work in a hospital or other medical facility
• International travelers or those who are passengers on a cruise ship
• Women of childbearing age

However, pregnant women should wait to get MMR vaccine until after they have given birth. Women should not become pregnant for 28 days following the receipt of the MMR vaccine or any of its components. (The combination MMRV vaccine is not licensed for those over 12 years old.)

If you have questions about whether to get the vaccination, be sure to contact your physician.

 

If you’re presently seeking a senior apartment, independent-living, assisted-living, or other continuing-care community for yourself or a senior loved one, don’t forget to visit alternativesforseniors.com to assist your search. Alternatives for Seniors is a print and online directory that specifically caters to the housing and personal care concerns of senior citizens and their families. You can also call our Senior Specialists at (888) WE-ASSIST (888-932-7747).

 

BLOG Date: February 24, 2015
Writer: Ryan Allen