For Travelers
Measles remains a common disease in many parts of the world, including areas in Europe, Asia, the Pacific, and Africa and the Americas. In the United States, most of the measles cases result from international travel. The disease is brought into the United States by people who get infected in other countries. They spread the disease to others, which can cause measles outbreaks.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of getting infected when they travel internationally.
Before any international travel—
- Infants 6 months through 11 months of age should have 1 dose of measles vaccine.†
- Children 12 months of age or older should have 2 doses separated by at least 28 days.
- Adolescents and Adults who have not had measles or been vaccinated should get 2 doses separated by at least 28 days.
More Information
- Measles—United States, 2011
In 2011, 222 people in the United States were reported to have measles. These cases were mostly due to international travel. MMWR. April 20, 2012 - Travelers Health: Yellow Book
Measles chapter from CDC’s Health Information for International Travel (the Yellow Book). - Measles - Recommendations for Prevention for Travelers
Recommendations for people traveling outside of the United States. - 2012 Measles Update
Measles information for U.S. travelers and citizens living in other countries. - June 2011 CDC Health Advisory - High Number of Reported Measles Cases in the U.S. in 2011—Linked to Outbreaks Abroad
The U.S. is experiencing a high number of measles cases this year. People of all ages should be up to date on MMR vaccination and other vaccinations, especially before international travel. - Measles Imported by Returning U.S. Travelers Aged 6-23 Months, 2001-2011
MMWR states in the first 2 months of 2011, CDC received reports of seven imported measles cases among returning U.S. travelers aged 6-23 months; four required hospitalization.
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