Healthy Living

How Long Does the Measles Vaccine Last? What to Know About Measles in 2026

Sep. 8, 2026

After a surge of measles in 2025 with 2,289 confirmed measles cases in the United States, measles circulation remains high in 2026, with over 3,000 cases.

Most infections occur in unvaccinated individuals, but what about those who’ve been vaccinated? Here’s what you need to know about MMR vaccine effectiveness, symptoms to watch for, and how to keep your family safe.

How Long Does the Measles Vaccine Last?

The measles vaccine is very effective, with two doses about 97% effective at preventing the disease if you are exposed to the virus.

Most people vaccinated with both measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) doses are protected for life. Even if a vaccinated person does get measles, symptoms are usually much milder, and they’re less likely to spread it to others.

Vaccination protects more than just you—it helps prevent the virus from spreading to newborns, people undergoing cancer treatment, and others who can't be vaccinated.

Who may need another MMR dose?

Adults born between 1963–1967 may need a modernized vaccine.

Here’s how you can help:

Make sure your family’s vaccinations are up to date

Know your vaccine status—ask your healthcare provider

Encourage others to get vaccinated

Measles Vaccine Effectiveness

Before vaccines, nearly every child in the U.S. got measles. Today, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is incredibly effective:

1 dose = 93% protection

2 doses = 97% protection

What Is the Measles Vaccine Schedule for Children?

Dr. Geoff Weinberg, a pediatrician and infectious disease expert at Golisano Children's, provides the latest recommendations for the measles vaccine in children.

Children routinely receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine:

First dose: 12 to 15 months old
Second dose: 4 to 6 years old

Children who missed these routine vaccinations can still "catch up." They generally need two doses of the MMR vaccine given at least four weeks apart. Confirm with your pediatrician about the appropriate timing.

Can Children Receive the MMR Vaccine Early?

Children who have received both recommended doses generally do not need another measles vaccination. However, the schedule may change in certain circumstances:

International travel: Infants ages 6 to 11 months should receive one dose of MMR before traveling internationally. Children 12 months and older should have two documented doses before international travel.
Measles outbreaks: Public health officials may recommend an early dose for infants ages 6 to 11 months who are at increased risk of exposure. Families should follow guidance from their care team and local public health officials.
Infants younger than 6 months: The MMR vaccine is not given to this age group.

Why are there Measles Outbreaks?

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through the air. A single infected person can infect up to 90% of non-immune people around them. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your community.

“In a population that is not vaccinated, one person can infect another 12 to 18 people. That’s about a 90 percent attack rate and is honestly incredibly scary,” said Jennifer Nayak, MD, associate professor of pediatric infectious diseases with University of Rochester Medicine.

Unfortunately, only 88% of children in Monroe County are vaccinated by age two, falling short of the 95% needed for herd immunity.

Measles Symptoms to Watch for

Measles can be severe—even deadly—especially for young children and people with weakened immune systems. Classic measles symptoms include:

High fever

Cough and runny nose

Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)

Rash that starts at the hairline and spreads down

Measles can also lead to complications such as:

Ear infections

Pneumonia

Rare but fatal brain inflammation occurring either shortly following infection or even years afterwards

How Does Measles Spread?

Measles is an airborne virus, meaning it spreads through tiny droplets in the air when someone coughs or sneezes. You can catch it just by being in the same room as an infected person, even long after they’ve left.

“Measles can stay in the air and the room for up to two hours,” said Dr. Nayak. “That means if you’re going shopping an hour behind someone with measles, you can still potentially get infected. That’s why we’re scared of the contagiousness.”

People with measles are contagious for about four days before the rash appears and four days after. That means they can spread the virus even before they know they’re sick.

What To Do If You Suspect Measles

If you or someone you know has symptoms, it’s essential to act quickly.

If you or your child has symptoms like fever and rash, call your doctor before going to any clinic. This allows your provider to deliver care to you in the safest way possible, helping prevent the virus from spreading further, including to infants and others who are unable to be vaccinated.

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