Measles Update

Routine immunization

Adults born before 1970 are generally presumed to have acquired natural immunity to measles; however, some of these individuals may be susceptible.

Adults without contraindications, born in or after 1970 who do not meet the definition of measles immunity should be immunized with 1 dose of MMR vaccine.

Table 1: Criteria for measles immunityRoutine immunizationHealth care workersTravellers to destinations outside North AmericaStudents in post-secondary educational settingsMilitary personnel

• Documentation of vaccination:

  • Children 12 months to less than 18 years of age: 2 doses

  • Adults 18 years of age and older born in or after 1970: 1 dose

  OR

• History of laboratory confirmed infection
  OR

• Laboratory evidence of immunity
  OR

• Born before 1970

• Documentation of vaccination with 2 doses (regardless of year of birth)
  OR

• History of laboratory confirmed infection
  OR

• Laboratory evidence of immunity

• Documentation of vaccination:

  • If born in or after 1970: 2 doses

  • If born before 1970: 1 dose

  OR

• History of laboratory confirmed infection
  OR

• Laboratory evidence of immunity

• Documentation of vaccination:

  • If born in or after 1970: 2 doses

  • If born before 1970: consider 1 dose if no documentation of receipt of measles-containing vaccine

  OR

• History of laboratory confirmed infection
  OR

• Laboratory evidence of immunity

• Documentation of vaccination with 2 doses  (regardless of year of birth)
  OR

• History of laboratory confirmed infection
  OR

• Laboratory evidence of immunity