The best way to prevent measles is to get the MMR vaccine.

CDC recommendation:

All children should get two doses of MMR vaccine:

• 1^st dose at 12 to 15 months of age;
• 2^nd dose at 4 to 6 years of age;
• Children can receive the second dose earlier as long as it is at least 28 days after the first dose.

The Albany County Department of Health offers MMR vaccines.

Call (518) 447-4589 to make an appointment.

The MMR vaccine is very safe and effective. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective.

When more than 95% of people in a community are vaccinated, most people are protected through herd immunity. Herd immunity refers to enough people being immune to a disease that the infection can’t spread from one person to another. This protects those who cannot get vaccinated, such as newborn babies, those who are too sick to be vaccinated, and the elderly.

In Albany County, as of February 2024, the percentage of children who have received at least 1 measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine dose by 2 years of age is only 83.5%.

If you or someone you know has questions about the MMR vaccine, call your doctors and please visit the CDC at this link: Measles Vaccines for Children | CDC

For more information about how to help your child with receiving shots, please visit this link: Before, During, and After Your Child's Shots | CDC