Measles cases are surging across the US, with outbreaks in Texas, New Mexico, Washington, D.C., and 16 other states. To protect against the illness, experts recommend getting vaccinated with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine or the measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) shot.
Most people who receive either vaccination are protected for life, but some may need booster shots. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that individuals vaccinated before 1968 with an inactivated measles vaccine should get at least one dose of a new measles vaccine.
However, certain groups should not get vaccinated or check with their healthcare provider first. These include people with previous allergic reactions to the vaccine, pregnant women, those with weakened immune systems, and individuals who have recently received other vaccines.
The measles vaccine is extremely safe and effective, with people receiving two MMR shots estimated to be about 97% protected from the illness. The CDC reports that most vaccinated adults do not need boosters to protect against measles.
As of March 20, there were 378 confirmed cases of measles nationwide across 18 states, with 90% associated with three reported outbreaks. Texas and New Mexico have reported over 300 and 43 cases, respectively. To stay up-to-date on the latest measles outbreak news, check our measles outbreak tracker.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/mollybohannon/2025/03/25/should-you-get-a-measles-vaccine-booster-heres-what-to-know