A measles vaccination is required for all foreign visitors before they leave the United States, according to an emergency recommendation issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A recent rise in cases globally and several recent exposures connected to international air travel are the reasons for this suggestion.
According to the CDC, measles is not just a pediatric illness but also an infectious disease that can cause pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. As travel throughout the world has increased since the pandemic, health officials caution that passengers may spread the virus in America before they even realize they have it and contract it while traveling elsewhere.
Why the CDC Is Warning Travelers
Three outbreaks (defined as three or more related cases) were reported in 2025, and the outbreak was responsible for 93% of the cases (280 out of 301). That number may seem low, but the reason is that because measles is officially eliminated in the U.S., any new case is a serious threat of re-establishing transmission.
“The global spread of measles is of concern,” the CDC stated. “International travelers, especially those visiting countries with measles outbreaks, should ensure they are vaccinated.”
Measles cases have sharply increased in European, Asian, and African countries following vaccination declines, healthcare disruptions brought on by the epidemic, and increasing migration. Due to these factors, as well as the fact that the virus is airborne, unvaccinated travelers can easily introduce measles into the United States.
Vaccination Advice for Travelers
Regardless of age, the CDC recommends that all travelers make sure they are current on the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella). MMR provides 97% protection against measles after two doses.
For international travel:
- Adults and children over the age of 1 year should have two documented MMR doses.
- Infants 6–11 months old should get one dose pre-travel, but this dose does not apply toward the standard two-dose schedule.
- Unvaccinated persons born after 1957 also need to get the full two-dose series unless they have immunity documentation.
The CDC recommends vaccination at least two weeks prior to traveling to enable the body sufficient time to develop immunity.
Air Travel and Exposure Risk
Measles cases on recent commercial flights have been a public health concern. Since the virus remains airborne for up to two hours after a contaminated person has exited an area, public spaces like airplanes, airports, and waiting rooms become a transmission risk zone.
“Even brief journeys can expose you,” explained Dr. Manisha Patel, a medical officer at the CDC. “Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself, not only the traveler, but also their families and communities at home.”
Stay Informed and Protected
The CDC’s Travelers’ Health webpage will provide travelers with the most recent information. A few weeks before their trip, anyone who is unsure if they require vaccinations should speak with their doctor.
The CDC is emphasizing healthy travel behaviors as summer travel grows. International tourists should get vaccinated against measles for public health reasons, not just personal safety.
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