CT Urges Residents To Stay Up To Date On Measles Vaccination

CONNECTICUT — Amid rising measles cases and hospitalizations across the United States and globally, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) is encouraging residents to check their vaccination status. While no cases have been reported in Connecticut, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 301 measles cases across 15 U.S. jurisdictions as of March 13, surpassing the total reported in 2024. The majority of cases involve individuals who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.

“Measles is a highly contagious disease, and it is also entirely preventable with the MMR vaccine,” said DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. “We urge parents, caregivers, and all residents to check their vaccination status and get vaccinated if they are not fully protected. Staying up to date on vaccinations not only protects individuals and families but also helps safeguard those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical conditions.”

Health officials emphasize the importance of community vaccination coverage of at least 95% to achieve "herd immunity," which helps protect vulnerable populations. In Connecticut, 97.7% of kindergarten students were up-to-date with the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine during the 2023–24 school year. DPH updates vaccination rates by school annually.

In response to outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico, DPH is urging residents to ensure they are adequately vaccinated. The agency particularly recommends that infants aged 6 to 11 months who will be traveling internationally or to areas experiencing active measles transmission receive a dose of the MMR vaccine at least two weeks before travel. Additionally, some adults who received measles vaccinations between 1963 and 1967 may have received a less effective version of the vaccine. Those uncertain about their vaccination history should consult their healthcare provider.

Updates to the number of cases nationally are provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) every Friday here.

The CDC reports that two doses of the MMR vaccine, administered at least 28 days apart, are 97% effective in preventing measles. Routine vaccination schedules include a first dose at 12 to 15 months of age and a second dose between 4 and 6 years old. Infants who receive an early dose before travel should still follow the standard vaccination schedule. Certain groups, including college students, healthcare workers, international travelers, and those at high risk for complications, should receive two doses. Adults born before 1957 are generally considered immune due to past exposure.

Residents can access their vaccination records securely online through the CT WiZ Public Portal, a confidential and free service provided by the Connecticut Department of Public Health Immunization Program. Additional resources are available for those who need assistance locating older records. (To access the CT WiZ Public Portal, visit: https://portal.ct.gov/immunization/knowledge-base/articles/general-public/all-about-ct-wiz/how-can-i-find-my-old-immunization-records-that-arent-in-ct-wiz?language=en_US)

While the MMR vaccine is safe for most people, individuals who are allergic, pregnant, or immunocompromised should consult their healthcare provider to determine eligibility.

The MMR vaccine is available through primary care providers, community health centers, local health departments, and pharmacies listed on EasyVax.com and Vaccines.gov. Children under 18 are eligible for vaccinations through the Connecticut Vaccine Program (CVP). A provider list is available for those seeking pediatric care. For more information, residents can contact the Connecticut Vaccine Program at 860-509-7929 or email dph.immunizations@ct.gov.

Measles, a highly contagious viral illness, can infect up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus. Symptoms, which typically appear up to 21 days after exposure, begin with fever, cough, runny nose, and eye redness or swelling before progressing to a rash. Individuals who suspect they have measles should contact a healthcare provider before seeking in-person medical care.