Printable version of this information (PDF, May 2025)
Prepare Your Practice
Myths and misinformation about measles and MMR vaccine are everywhere on the Internet and social media. Doctors and healthcare providers are important, credible experts in debunking common misunderstandings and encouraging patients to make medical decisions that will protect their health and safety.
Measles outbreaks are occurring in U.S. and Canada. Now is the time to prepare your medical office to handle potential measles exposures and measles cases.
- Review measles symptoms, transmission and risk factors.
- Review evidence of measles immunity and be prepared to explain to your patients.
- Review measles testing protocols.
- Review your office’s procedures for screening and testing potential measles cases.
- Review NYSDOH Health Advisories on measles.
DO NOT allow patients with suspected measles to remain in the waiting room or other common areas of your facility.
Encourage MMR Vaccination
A two-dose MMR vaccine series is 97% effective against measles infection. Anyone who has not been vaccinated against measles and was born after 1956 should receive at least one dose of MMR vaccine. MMR vaccine contains a live, weakened virus, MMR vaccine should not be given during pregnancy or to people who are immunocompromised due to a health condition or medication.
Test and Report
Call your local health department when considering measles testing. They can advise on the best options for specimen collection and testing. If a suspected measles case is directed to a hospital or medical facility, NOTIFY THEM so that appropriate infection control precautions can be implemented upon arrival. Immediately report patients with suspected measles to the Local Health Department (LHD) where the patient resides. Erie County residents should be reported to the ECDOH Office of Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance at (716) 858-7697.
Providers can order free measles test kits from NYSDOH Wadsworth Center: (518) 474-4175. Test kits include swab outfit with viral transport media (VTM).