$Unique_ID{BRK00761}
$Pretitle{Infections or Parasites}
$Title{Another Vaccination Against Measles}
$Subject{measles immunization}
$Volume{A-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Another Vaccination Against Measles


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  During a recent school physical, my doctor advised that my teenager
receive another vaccination against measles, despite the fact that he has
already had all his immunizations before.  Although we went along with the
recommendation, we are a bit skeptical of the motivations here.  Would you
care to comment on this situation?  I am sure there are plenty of other
concerned mothers who would like an answer to my question.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  I agree with you, we need to explain the new, updated policy on
measles vaccination as revised by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AFP).
And I agree with your doctor.  Here's why.  During recent measles outbreaks it
became evident that most of the cases involved children younger than 5 years
of age or persons of college age.  In previously vaccinated individuals, 805
occurred in children over the age of 12.  To prevent the spread of measles in
schools and colleges, and to increase vaccination among preschool children,
the AFP has recommended that a second measles vaccination be given to children
when they enter middle school or junior high school.  Formerly only a single
vaccination was suggested, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) at age 15 months
with a second vaccination indicated only when outbreaks of the disease
occurred.  So your doctor was only keeping up with the times.  Several
additional recommendations were included in the revision, which indicated that
children in high risk areas should receive their initial injection at 12
months of age, and if vaccinated before their first birthday, with repeats at
age 15 months and at the beginning of their middle school or junior high
school years.  Young women should not be pregnant at time of vaccination or
for 3 months afterward.  Educational institutions beyond high school have been
advised to require entering students to provide documentation of two measles
immunizations.
ÿ
----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
