You may have heard that there have been some confirmed cases of measles recently in Massachusetts, in the MetroWest area. Understandably, this can be a cause for concern.
Although Measles transmission was effectively eliminated in the United States and Canada by 1998, in the last few years there have been an increased number of measles cases in both Europe and North America. Any time a measles outbreak is in the news, many people will wonder if they are protected from this disease. The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella, is a vaccination that protects you throughout your lifetime. It is given in two doses, typically when you are a young child.
If you are unsure of your vaccination history and do not have records, blood tests can be used to determine if you have immunity or not. If you were not vaccinated as a child for some reason, you can receive the vaccination as an adult. It’s a good idea to consult with your doctor or other health care provider if you have any questions about your vaccinations.
By Dr. Alwyn Rapose, MD
Division of Infectious Disease
About Alwyn Rapose, MD
Originally from India, Dr. Alwyn Rapose now enjoys practicing medicine in Massachusetts. He completed his Internal Medicine residency at St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester and liked the experience so much that he stayed on board for another year as Chief Resident. He then completed his Infectious Disease fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas.
Dr. Rapose felt that Reliant Medical Group was a good fit...
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