What is the killed measles vaccine and what does it mean if you got one

Anna Roberts
·2 min read
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Last month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a warning over the increase in measles outbreaks. And this week, the Chicago Department of Public Health warned about possible measles exposure at several city locations.

Related: Chicago Health warns of possible measles exposure on CTA buses, city schools

While measles is most dangerous for young children and pregnant women, the CDC warns everyone – especially those planning international travel of any kind – should get vaccinated to prevent the virus’ spread.

As far as who does not need the MMR Vaccine, the CDC lists the following criteria:

  • You have written documentation of adequate vaccination:

    • at least one dose of a measles, mumps, and rubella virus-containing vaccine administered on or after the first birthday for preschool-age children and adults not at high risk for exposure and transmission

    • two doses of measles and mumps virus-containing vaccine for school-age children and adults at high risk for exposure and transmission, including college students, healthcare personnel, international travelers, and groups at increased risk during outbreaks

  • You have laboratory confirmation of past infection or had blood tests that show you are immune to measles, mumps, and rubella.

  • You were born before 1957.

LIVE measles vaccine vs the killed measles vaccine

Additionally, the CDC says, “if you received a measles vaccine in the 1960s, you may not need to be revaccinated.”

Those who received the vaccine in the 1960s should check their vaccine records. If you received the “LIVE measles vaccine in the 1960s,” the CDC says you do not need to be revaccinated.

The killed measles vaccine is an earlier formulation of measles vaccine that is no longer used. The CDC says if your vaccine documentation indicates you received the killed measles vaccine, you should talk with you healthcare provider about getting revaccinated with the current MMR vaccine.

The CDC says this recommendation is intended to “protect those who may have received killed measles vaccine, which was available in 1963-1967 and was not effective.”

Measles outbreaks: Is the vaccine good for life or do you need a booster?

Additionally, according to the CDC, being before 1957 provides only presumptive evidence for measles, mumps, and rubella. “Before vaccines were available, nearly everyone was infected with measles, mumps, and rubella viruses during childhood. The majority of people born before 1957 are likely to have been infected naturally and therefore are presumed to be protected against measles, mumps, and rubella.” Healthcare personnel born before 1957 without laboratory evidence of immunity or disease should consider getting two doses of MMR vaccine.”

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