Introduction to Measles Vaccination for International Travelers

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its guidelines for international travelers, emphasizing the importance of measles vaccinations for all travelers, regardless of their destination. This change in guidance reflects the increasing risk of measles transmission during travel, not just in countries with ongoing outbreaks.

Background on Measles and Travel

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can spread quickly in areas with low vaccination rates. The CDC previously recommended measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) shots for travelers going to countries with known outbreaks. However, the recent update expands this recommendation to include all international travel.

The Reason Behind the Update

The shift in the CDC’s guidance is attributed to the changing nature of measles transmission. According to Ashley Darcy-Mahoney, a researcher at George Washington University’s nursing school, the update is significant because it recognizes that measles exposure is not limited to countries with outbreaks. Instead, the risk of transmission now includes airplanes and other travel settings. An example of this was seen in a Colorado outbreak last month, which stemmed from an international flight that landed in Denver.

The New Guidance

The updated travel notice from the CDC advises all Americans ages 1 and older to get two doses of the MMR vaccine before traveling internationally. Additionally, an early dose is recommended for traveling infants ages 6 months to 11 months. This guidance is particularly important given the current measles situation in the U.S., with over 1,000 cases reported so far this year.

Importance of Vaccination

Vaccination against measles is crucial not only for individual protection but also for preventing the spread of the virus in communities. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing measles, mumps, and rubella. By ensuring that all international travelers are vaccinated, the risk of importing and exporting measles can be significantly reduced.

Conclusion

The CDC’s updated guidance on measles vaccination for international travelers underscores the global nature of health risks and the importance of preventive measures. As international travel becomes more accessible, the potential for disease spread increases, making it essential for travelers to take necessary precautions, including vaccinations. By following the CDC’s recommendations, individuals can protect themselves and contribute to global health security.

FAQs

• Q: Why has the CDC updated its guidance on measles vaccination for travelers?
  • A: The CDC has updated its guidance because measles can now be transmitted not just in countries with outbreaks but also during travel, including on airplanes.
• Q: Who should get vaccinated against measles before international travel?
  • A: All Americans ages 1 and older should get two doses of the MMR vaccine before traveling internationally. Infants ages 6 months to 11 months should receive an early dose.
• Q: How effective is the MMR vaccine in preventing measles?
  • A: The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing measles, mumps, and rubella.
• Q: Why is it important to vaccinate against measles?
  • A: Vaccination against measles is important for individual protection and for preventing the spread of the virus in communities, thereby reducing the risk of outbreaks.
    

    By MIKE STOBBE

    NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials have changed their advice to international travelers about measles, saying that Americans should be vaccinated against the virus no matter where they’re going.

U.S. residents are recommended to get measles-mumps-rubella shots, anyway. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention previously emphasized the importance of vaccination for travelers going to countries with outbreaks.

Last week, the CDC updated its guidance to call for vaccinations for travelers going to all other countries.

Ashley Darcy-Mahoney, a researcher at George Washington University’s nursing school, called the update significant.

An Colorado outbreak last month stemmed from an international flight that landed in Denver, she noted. The CDC travel notice change reflects a recognition that people are not just being exposed to measles in countries where it’s spreading, but also in airplanes and during travel, she added.

“We’re seeing a shift from localized outbreaks to transmission in transit,” and the CDC seems to be responding to that, Darcy-Mahoney said.

The travel notice advises two doses for all Americans ages 1 and older. An early dose is advised for traveling infants ages 6 months to 11 months. The U.S. has seen more than 1,000 measles cases so far this year.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

        <p>Originally Published: June 2, 2025 at 5:32 PM EDT</p>