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Contents
  • Unvaccinated Individuals
  • Compromised Immune Systems
  • Pregnancy and Infancy

Who's at Risk for Measles? Understanding Vulnerability Factors

Who's at Risk for Measles? Understanding Vulnerability Factors

Know Your Risk

While anyone can contract measles if exposed, certain groups are at higher risk for infection or complications. Recognizing these risk factors is crucial for prevention and early intervention.
Contents
  • Unvaccinated Individuals
  • Compromised Immune Systems
  • Pregnancy and Infancy

Unvaccinated Individuals

The most significant risk factor for measles is lack of vaccination. This includes children too young to be vaccinated, adults who never received the vaccine, and those with only one dose instead of the recommended two. In outbreak situations, even vaccinated individuals may be at some risk if exposed to high viral loads.

Compromised Immune Systems

People with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe measles and complications. This includes those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and organ transplant recipients on immunosuppressive drugs. These individuals may not be able to receive the live measles vaccine, making them more vulnerable.
Factors increasing the risk of contracting measles include being unvaccinated and having a compromised immune system. These include individuals with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients on chemotherapy, and organ transplant recipients.

Pregnancy and Infancy

Pregnant women who contract measles are at risk for severe complications, including miscarriage and preterm birth. Infants born to mothers who had measles during pregnancy may have congenital measles. Additionally, infants too young for vaccination are at high risk if exposed.

FAQs

Can you get measles twice?

It's extremely rare. Natural infection usually confers lifelong immunity.

Are international travelers at higher risk?

Yes, especially when visiting countries with ongoing outbreaks.

Do vitamin A deficiency increase risk?

Yes, it can lead to more severe measles and higher complication rates.

Protecting the Vulnerable

Understanding measles risk factors helps target prevention efforts and protect those most susceptible.
Concerned about your measles risk? Consult with Doctronic to assess your personal risk factors and discuss prevention strategies.
Additional References
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles (Rubeola) For Healthcare Providers. https://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/index.html
  2. World Health Organization. Measles. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/measles
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.