Recent reports of measles outbreaks have unsurprisingly caused public concern, leading more people to seek measles immunity testing from their health care providers. However, this may not be the best approach.

“Immunity testing for measles is not needed or recommended for anyone outside of the outbreak areas,” explains Dr. John Brill, the vice president of population health sciences and research at Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care. “Instead, you should review your vaccination records and receive the measles vaccine if you haven’t already.”

The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles when you receive the recommended two doses. The first dose typically is administered at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose between 4 and 6 years old.

Adults born before 1957 and those with a confirmed history of measles do not need the vaccination.

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