Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that causes up to 875,000 deaths annually around the world. Measles associated symptoms include fever; generalized, blotchy rash; runny nose and white spots in the mouth. Transmission occurs primarily through respiratory droplets and all non-immunized travelers are at high risk of exposure outside the United States.
Mumps is an acute viral disease characterized by fever, swelling and tenderness of at least one salivary gland. Travelers’ risk of infection can be high since many countries do not use the Mumps vaccine routinely.
Rubella is another acute viral disease that usually affects susceptible individuals of any age. Rubella is prevalent worldwide and the risk of exposure outside the United States is high. Rubella is associated with significant morbidity in adults and high rates of miscarriage and anomalies of congenital Rubella syndrome if contracted in the first trimester of pregnancy.
The Measles/Mumps/Rubella vaccine (MMR) is recommended for all travelers over 12 months of age and each of the two doses should be separated by at least 28 days prior to departing the United States. Travelers who have received the MMR vaccine should avoid pregnancy for one month following immunization.
Source: CDC Vaccine Information Statement (VIS): MMR Vaccine (3/13/08) 42 U.S.C. §300aa-26
So, if you are asking yourself, “what shots do I need?” click here to locate the Passport Health location nearest you, or call 888-499-PASS (7277).
You can also click here to learn more about diseases and vaccines that may impact your trip.
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