As measles cases in Wisconsin continue to rise, now is the time to make sure you are protected.
Measles is a virus that can easily spread from person to person. It spreads through coughing,
sneezing, and breathing the same air as a person with measles. About 1 in 5 people who get
measles will be hospitalized.
Measles is very contagious and can be serious, especially for children under age 5, adults over
age 20, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Anyone who is not
protected against measles is at risk. The best way to prevent measles is to get two doses of the
measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which provides 97% protection. Children can
receive their first MMR dose between 12-15 months and the second dose between 4-6 years.
You can check your vaccine status through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry at
http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/wir.htm
If you received a measles vaccine in the 1960s, you may need to be revaccinated. People who
have documentation of receiving a LIVE measles vaccine in the 1960s do not need to be
revaccinated. People vaccinated prior to 1968 with either inactivated (killed) measles vaccine or
measles vaccine of unknown type should consider being revaccinated. It is best to discuss this
with your healthcare provider. The MMR vaccine is safe, and there is no harm in getting
another, even if you were vaccinated previously. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may
be eligible to receive vaccines at Monroe County Health Department. Call the Health
Department at 608-269-8666 to learn more about eligibility for this program. Vaccines are also
available through healthcare providers and pharmacies. If you have questions, speak with your
healthcare provider.
Learn more about measles at https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/measles.htm and
follow the Monroe County Health Department Facebook and Instagram pages for more
information.
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