Traveling internationally opens up a world of experiences, but it also brings potential health risks. Measles, a highly contagious disease, remains a concern in many parts of the world. To ensure a safe and healthy trip for you and your family, understanding and following Cdc Traveling Guidelines is crucial. This article will outline who is at risk of measles, what precautions to take before, during, and after international travel, based on the latest CDC recommendations.
Who is at Risk of Measles When Traveling?
You are at risk of contracting measles if you travel internationally and have not been fully vaccinated against measles or have not had measles previously. Measles is still spreading in many countries, making unvaccinated travelers particularly vulnerable.
Preparing for International Travel: CDC Guidelines
Do Not Travel if You Are Sick:
If you or your child are feeling unwell, especially with symptoms that could indicate measles, it is essential to postpone your travel plans. If you suspect exposure to measles before your trip, contact your doctor immediately for guidance.
Vaccination: Your Primary Protection Against Measles:
The most effective way to protect yourself and your family from measles is through vaccination. The CDC recommends the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine for robust protection. Ideally, you should be fully vaccinated at least 2 weeks before your international trip. However, even if your departure is less than two weeks away and you are not vaccinated, getting an MMR dose is still beneficial.
The MMR vaccine is highly effective:
- Two doses of the MMR vaccine offer about 97% protection against measles.
- One dose provides approximately 93% protection.
Consult your doctor, local health department, or a nearby health center to schedule your MMR vaccination. It’s important to note that the CDC does not recommend measles vaccination for infants under 6 months old.
Vaccination Schedules Based on Age (Following CDC Guidelines):
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Infants 6 through 11 months old traveling internationally:
- Should receive an early dose of the MMR vaccine before travel.
- They will still need to follow the standard vaccination schedule: another dose at 12-15 months and a final dose at 4-6 years.
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Children 12 months and older:
- Should receive their first MMR dose immediately if not already vaccinated.
- The second dose should be administered 28 days after the first dose.
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Teens and Adults without Immunity:
- Should receive their first MMR dose immediately if they lack evidence of immunity.
- The second dose should be given 28 days after the first.
*Acceptable evidence of immunity against measles, as per CDC guidelines, includes:
- Documented proof of adequate MMR vaccination (one or two doses depending on age and risk factors).
- Laboratory evidence confirming measles immunity.
- Laboratory confirmation of a past measles infection.
- Birth in the United States before 1957 (generally considered immune due to widespread exposure before vaccination programs).
For detailed vaccination schedules, refer to the CDC’s Routinely Recommended Immunization Schedules.
After Your International Trip: Monitoring Your Health
Upon returning from international travel, it’s crucial to monitor your health for 3 weeks. Measles is extremely contagious and spreads easily through respiratory droplets produced by coughing and sneezing.
Seek Medical Attention if Symptoms Appear:
Immediately contact your doctor if you or your child develop a rash and fever after returning from international travel. Inform your doctor about your recent travel history and your MMR vaccination status.
Measles is highly contagious; if one person has measles, up to 90% of their unvaccinated close contacts will also become infected. Individuals with measles can spread the virus from 4 days before the rash appears to 4 days after.
Typical measles symptoms include:
- High fever, potentially spiking above 104°F
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Rash appearing 3-5 days after initial symptoms
Global Measles Outbreaks and Travel Planning
Measles remains prevalent in many regions worldwide, including parts of Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Annually, measles causes an estimated 128,000 deaths globally. Many popular travel destinations have experienced measles outbreaks recently, such as the UK, Israel, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Ukraine, and the Philippines.
Before your next international trip:
Always check your destination on the CDC’s travel destination website and review CDC global travel notices for up-to-date health advisories and measles outbreak information.
Measles in the U.S. and the Role of International Travel
In the United States, measles cases are primarily linked to international travel. The disease is often introduced into the U.S. by unvaccinated individuals who become infected while traveling abroad. Alarmingly, approximately two-thirds of these unvaccinated travelers are U.S. residents. These individuals can then spread measles to unvaccinated communities in the U.S., sometimes leading to outbreaks.
Given the ongoing presence of measles in many countries, unvaccinated travelers can unknowingly bring measles back to the United States, where it can spread. Protect yourself, your family, and your community by adhering to CDC traveling guidelines and getting the MMR vaccine, especially before embarking on international travel.
