(9azk of 11)
As of September 14, 2021 per https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/clinicians/update-on-measles-in-virginia/Multiple cases of measles have been confirmed among individuals who have arrived in the United States from Afghanistan. VDH [Virginia Department Of Health] is working closely with federal partners who are in charge of the transport and housing of individuals from Afghanistan to identify any new cases of measles and perform case investigation, contact tracing, and administration of post-exposure prophylaxis [ measures taken to maintain health and prevent the spread of disease.].
Measles Vaccination
Vaccination is the best prevention for measles. VDH urges persons who are not vaccinated or whose children have not been vaccinated to receive the vaccine as soon as possible. A healthcare provider’s recommendation encouraging vaccine has been shown to be one of the most influential components of a parent’s decision making about vaccinating their children. Please continue to encourage routine vaccinations to your patients.Measles vaccination recommendations include the following:
* Children should receive two doses of MMR vaccine – the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age and the second dose 4 through 6 years of age. Giving the second dose earlier is acceptable as long as it is at least 28 days after the first dose.
* Children 6 through 11 months of age who are traveling internationally should receive one dose of vaccine before departure. Upon return, the child should receive two additional doses of vaccine as above.
* Birth before 1957 [those 65 and older] is considered acceptable evidence of immunity for adults other than healthcare workers, college and other students, and international travelers, who should receive two appropriately spaced doses.
* Adults born after 1957 who are not in a high risk group described above need one dose.
* People who received two doses of MMR vaccine as children according to the U.S. vaccination schedule do not ever need a booster dose.
