Do I need a measles vaccine booster shot? What to know as new outbreak leads to first death

A measles outbreak in West Texas has resulted in one child's death, highlighting the resurgence of this preventable disease due to vaccine hesitancy. The MMR and MMRV vaccines provide effective protection against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. Two doses of either vaccine are recommended for maximum protection, with specific age-based schedules. Adults and older children lacking immunity need one or two doses. Most individuals fully vaccinated with two doses are adequately protected. However, those vaccinated before 1968 with an ineffective vaccine may need a booster. Health authorities confirm the MMR vaccine's safety and effectiveness, emphasizing its lack of link to autism. The vaccine's efficacy is high, reaching 97% after two doses. While not guaranteeing complete protection, vaccination significantly reduces severity and transmission. The CDC strongly recommends vaccination as the best defense against measles infection.