24 Comments
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JG's avatar

As always. Thank you. For being smart and for continuing to care.

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Abby Pariser's avatar

Do adults who had the real red measles, as well as mumps, chickenpox, German measles, in the 1950s need to be vaccinated?

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John Fontaine, Phm's avatar

You may very well have had measles but oral history is not confirmation. Those born in the continental US 1957 or later are said to have natural immunity given the prevalence of circulating measles.

For some immunity waned & there status can be evaluated by having a blood test (titre)...much easier to simply receive a booster...single dose, particularly if travelling to an with an outbreak.

Sadly, getting the booster can be a challenge, may need a requisition from your HCP or insurance requirements.

We can't recommend mass vaccinations for those in there late 60's and older but given the unacceptable levels of immunizations in many communities, I am hoping more individuals have a conversation with the HCP to assess their individual risk.

JJF Phm 🇨🇦

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Abby Pariser's avatar

John: Why do you write "continental US 1957 or later"?

Why do you say not to be revaccinated if I'm past my late 60's.

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Wanda MIller's avatar

Born in 1955, I’m never had measles Got updated with in last 2 months.

I’m getting tested folio immunity, no records although I remember a sugar cube and one elementary school friend out with polio the same year. His rehabilitation went on for year. Speech therapy, physical therapy, etc

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John Fontaine, Phm's avatar

I had not given thought to this previously... specifically continental US...nor have I gone looking to parse the recognized guidelines...my point, the general statement those born in the USA 1957, can this be extended to American territories?

I don't know that answer but given the rampant (I don't think I am over stating) cases threw out the world as a result of many not being vaccinated is 1957 a appropriate time frame.

Sorry for the confusion with "late 6th decade".

I am very concerned & quite passionate about people being Up-to-date with all recommended vaccinations. In my haste I apparently not been more specific.

I am most willing to answer your specific needs if you choose. My qualifications are current, licenced in Ontario Can not the USA, certified in travel medicine ISTM an American accrediting body.

I take my feduciary responsibility very seriously in what I say & recommended to those who ask.

Warm regards, John

p.s. many adults particularly 'seniors' are under-vaccinated for pertussis also that being the "ap" in Tdap, pertussis protection waned 3-5 yr's regardless guidelines recommend "tetanus" boosters each 10 yr's...not the recommendation in the UK

Ok TMI and I won't continue with my rant about waning maternal antibodies for measles in newborns that is not 9-12 mo's most often said to be "ok" nor 6 mo's used by some... actually only 3-4 mo's 🤗 JJF

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Naomi B Bishop, MD's avatar

Thanks for this valuable information, Caitlin. According to the New Yok State DOH, there are 2 cases in New York City and 1 outside the city for a total of 3 cases. I believe they were reported more than 4 days ago. Surprisingly (at least to me), the overall vaccination rate in NYS, as estimated by the DOH, is only ~81%, far lower than the 95% needed for a wall of protection. New York City is not doing much better, with an overall rate of ~87%. We need to do better, and now our hands are tied behind our backs. If only the experts who could accomplish this were working rather than marching for their professional survival. Such a waste of valuable manpower.

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Kelly in Eldridge's avatar

Good to know. Thank you!

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Meg's avatar

Seattle Children's hospital alerted us of a measles case in our community

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Lorianna's avatar

Oh my goodness! Thank you so much! I truly appreciate what you are doing!💕

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Genevieve McCracken's avatar

Thank you so much. You go above and beyond.

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Elena Lister's avatar

Thank you so much!

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Antoinette Brewster's avatar

thank you again for all your wonderful information

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Jodi Kuhn, DrPH's avatar

Erie County Health Dept (PA) announced at least 1 confirmed measles case (possibly 3 cases)- contact tracing since March 30.

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Greg Lanman's avatar

I have read that the outbreak in West Texas is responsible for Measles outbreaks in New Mexico, Mexico, and Oklahoma. And that it may take over a year to resolve itself. Also, who is going to hold the State of Texas (Governor Abbott) for their failure to prevent/control this public health emergency?

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Kelly Tresca's avatar

Thank you!

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Sun's avatar

A welcome addition! Thank you.

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Amy Goldstein's avatar

Thanks so much for all of the important information that you share with us!

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Jred's avatar

For those without the privilege to afford paying for all their health safety news, Dr Zachary Rubin has been posting frequent (weekly +) updates on the measles outbreaks for free.

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NNicraith's avatar

Thank you very much indeed for doing this. These days, life is like living in a 12 ring circus - it scarcely seems possible to keep track of all the goings-on. I appreciate you, and all the time and energy you are expending on everyone’s behalf.🤗

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