At Majoria Drugs in old Metairie, pharmacist Al Spitale said he has ordered a supply of the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella viruses. He said it is the first time he has stocked the vaccine in more than two years.
“Here’s the latest we know from CDC, if you were born before 1957, you’re good," Spitale said. “If you’re born after 1989, you’re good because, theoretically, you’ve gotten your two vaccinations. The period in question is from 1957 to 1989, and the reason for that is a lot of time, they don’t have documentation that they did get two of the immunizations. Also during that time there were some questionably effective vaccines.”
WDSU Medical Editor Dr. Corey Hebert said adults can get a simple blood test to see if they are immune to the virus.
“The best way to find out if you need a measles booster is to get your titers checked,” Hebert said. “Just go to your doctor, get your blood drawn, and you'll know if you have antibodies to the measles. If you don't, you need to get a measles booster shot.”
Some local pharmacies, including Majoria Drugs, are requiring people have a prescription to get the measles vaccine.