I received a measles outbreak update letter from the Department if Health this week. Just wanted to share the updates:
– Four cases in Maryland so far limited to Pikesville/Towson areas (zips 21208, 21209, 21215)
– MMR vaccine is given routinely at ages of one and 4-6 years old. This series provides 97% immunity. It’s not recommended to routinely test for immunity since having received the vaccine twice supersedes the blood test result.
– For those born before 1957, immunity is assumed since everyone in that age group was exposed to measles in childhood.
– Measles is VERY contagious so If you have symptoms of it (rash, fever, pink eye, runny nose, cough), call ahead to your doctor’s office or urgent care so they can prepare for your visit.
