Measles Information

Updated 6/17/19

As of June 13, 2019 more than 1,000 cases of Measles, in 28 states, have been confirmed in the United States. As summer events season gets underway, community members may be more likely to encounter a person with the measles.

Verifying immunity status of the members of your family will help protect you and the community from potential measles infection. This simple preventative step can be key to better public health. We have been receiving many questions about immunity to the measles so we are reaching out to help families be prepared and informed.

Resources for Healthcare Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

Who doesn't receive the measles vaccine?
  • Immunocompromised
  • Under the age of 1
  • Allergic to the vaccine
  • Those who have a medical, personal, or religious exemption for not receiving the vaccine
How do you know if you are protected from the measles?
  • If you were born before 1957 you are considered immune and your birthday is your proof of immunity
  • Written documentation of vaccination: 1 dose of MMR is considered 93% effective and 2 doses, at least 28 days apart is 97% effective. 1 dose is considered adequate for all except healthcare workers who should have 2.
How can I find out if I am adequately vaccinated?
  • Look for a copy of your vaccination records
  • Search the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR): https://www.dhswir.org
  • Call your physician office
  • If after trying all of the above you cannot find documentation, call your physician office and discuss having a titer drawn
What if I am not immune and either cannot receive or choose not to receive the vaccine?

In the event you would be exposed to a measles case and you could not provide documentation of immunity, you or your child would be quarantined for up to 2 weeks. This means that you would be required to remain at home to reduce the chances of spreading the virus. People infected with measles can spread the virus for 4 days before the rash starts through 4 days after the rash so a person may not even realize they are infectious.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to give a nurse form the Communicable disease Division a call at 920-232-3000.