Ever curious if the childhood vaccinations you received are still working? With outbreaks of measles hitting the headlines in recent times, more and more adults have been questioning whether their shots are still effective. Here’s what the professionals have to say on the topic of booster injections, which vaccinations may require a boost, and how to be certain you are still protected.
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): Do You Need a Booster?
If you received both doses of the MMR vaccine when you were a kid, you’re likely set for life, says Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist at Vanderbilt University. The schedule is supposed to be one dose between 12 and 15 months old and another between 4 and 6 years old.
But here’s where it gets complicated—if you received only one dose, or if your vaccination was in the 1960s or 70s, there’s a good chance you’re not fully protected. The vaccine administered between 1963 and 1967 wasn’t very good, and from 1968 until 1989, only one dose was given to most people. If your records indicate a single MMR vaccination, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor regarding receiving another.
And if you’ve been exposed to measles but aren’t sure about your vaccine history, the Texas Health Department recommends getting the MMR shot within three days of exposure. It may not prevent illness entirely, but it could reduce the severity, according to Dr. Jose Lucar at George Washington University.
Chickenpox (Varicella): Adult Vaccination and Shingles Prevention
Not certain if you caught chickenpox as a child, or skipped the vaccine altogether? The CDC advises two doses, separated by about a month, for anyone 13 and older who has never had chickenpox or the vaccine. Even if you received only one dose as a child, a second is still advised.
Even if you’ve had chickenpox or received the vaccine, it’s wise to consider shingles as you age. The same virus reappears later in life, but not in a pleasant manner. After age 50, the Shingrix vaccine (two-dose series) is strongly encouraged to ward off shingles.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap): Don’t Miss the Booster
Tetanus boosters are one of those adult vaccines that are important but seem to fall through the cracks—except they’re crucial. The rule of thumb is to receive a booster every 10 years, or sooner if you get a high-risk injury, such as a puncture wound, and can’t recall when your last shot was.
The Tdap vaccine also guards against diphtheria and whooping cough (pertussis). Diphtheria is uncommon in the U.S., but immunity to whooping cough wanes after several years. You might not require another dose before the 10-year point unless you’re in contact with infants younger than two months or you don’t know your vaccine history, according to Dr. Shira Doron at Tufts Medical Center.
Special Cases: When You’re Immunocompromised or At Higher Risk
If your immune system is compromised—due to HIV, cancer therapy, or organ transplant—the choice to obtain a booster becomes complicated. Because MMR and chickenpox vaccines are live vaccines, they can be dangerous in individuals with compromised immunity. This is certainly one time to discuss the issue with your doctor.
Dr. Bruce Scott, American Medical Association president, also notes that community immunity plays a role. When a population is largely vaccinated, it shelters those who cannot be, and this is another reason being up to date is so critical.
What About Cost? Insurance and Access to Boosters
Concerned that a booster will break the bank? Don’t worry. If your physician prescribes a vaccine on the CDC’s list, Medicare and private insurers usually have to cover it under the Affordable Care Act. And if you are uninsured or your plan doesn’t pay for it, local health departments sometimes provide free or low-cost vaccinations, particularly during outbreaks.
What to Do If You’re Not Sure About Your Vaccine History
Lost your vaccination records? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. A blood test is a quick way to test for immunity against diseases such as measles or chickenpox. Your physician can assist in determining what tests are appropriate. You can also contact your state or local health department—they’re an excellent resource for finding missing records or getting recommendations on vaccinations you may require.
It’s not just about keeping yourself healthy—it’s about keeping the people around you healthy as well. If you’re not sure where you stand on your vaccines, a quick visit to your healthcare provider can set your mind at ease and keep you covered.
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