The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a travel notice this week for the country of Kazakhstan.

Image/CIA
Image/CIA

Health officials in Kazakhstan have reported an outbreak of measles.

CDC officials say travelers to Kazakhstan should make sure they are vaccinated against measles with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.

Specifically:

  • Make sure you are fully vaccinated or otherwise protected against measles.
  • Infants 6-11 months of age should have 1 dose of measles vaccine if traveling internationally.
  • Children in the United States routinely receive measles vaccination at 12-15 months of age.
  • Infants vaccinated before 12 months of age should be revaccinated on or after the first birthday with 2 doses, separated by at least 28 days.
  • Children 12 months of age or older should have 2 doses, separated by at least 28 days.
  • Adolescents and adults who have not had measles or have not been vaccinated should get 2 doses, separated by at least 28 days.
  • Two doses of MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine are nearly 100% effective at preventing measles.
  • The only measles vaccines available in the United States are the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and the measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccines. MMR has been used safely and effectively since the 1970s. A few people experience mild, temporary, adverse reactions, such as joint pain, from the vaccine, but serious side effects are extremely rare. There is no link between MMR and autism.