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Measles

Updated July 9, 2025

You are likely hearing a lot of talk about measles these days, and we know you have questions. Let's start with some positive news:

There is a long-tested, safe, effective and readily available vaccine to prevent this respiratory disease, and most people have received it, providing them with immunity. Two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, spaced at least 28 days apart, are 97% effective in preventing measles, while a single dose is 93% effective. These facts allowed the U.S. to declare measles eliminated in 2000.

Measles has returned to the public eye for two reasons: proximity and the fact that it can spread quickly. This spring, there were laboratory-confirmed cases in the northeastern part of Indiana. Very recently, the Putnam County Health Department reported its first case, bringing this disease to our west central region of the state. Droplets from an infected person's sneeze or cough can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. The virus that causes measles can make people very ill and lead to life-threatening conditions, especially in those:

  • Younger than 5
  • Older than 20
  • Who are pregnant
  • Who have a weakened immune system/are immunocompromised

The following information answers the most frequently asked questions to date. We will continue to update this page as necessary. Please do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider or your county health department for questions or additional information.

Check Vaccination Status 
  • Hendricks patients can check their MyChart (website or app). Look for Health Summary, then Immunizations. You will see two MMR or MMRV dates listed if you are fully vaccinated.
  • Visit the MyVaxIndiana web portal maintained by the Indiana Department of Health. If you received vaccines many years ago, this site may have more information than MyChart.
Check Immunity

If you cannot locate proof of vaccination or are immunocompromised, please contact your healthcare provider to ask whether laboratory proof of immunity (titer blood test) or vaccination is right for you.

Get Vaccinated

You do not need to seek vaccination if you: 

  • Have received two MMR doses at least 28 days apart
  • Have laboratory proof of immunity (titer blood test)
  • Are older than 57

If those conditions do not apply to you, contact your healthcare provider or call your county health department today to discuss the vaccination and/or schedule a vaccination appointment.

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