Updated March 2024
There has been a concerning uptick in measles cases throughout the US in 2024 and several outbreaks of this disease around the world, including in European countries. The incubation period, i.e. the time from being exposed to someone who has measles to the time symptoms may develop, ranges from 7-21 days.
Information about measles symptoms can be found at Measles Signs and Symptoms | CDC
It is advised that people who have symptoms compatible with measles call their healthcare providers’ office and avoid contact with others until a measles diagnosis is ruled out.
Our student population has 99% presumptive immunity to measles.
Employees who do not have evidence of any of the immunity criteria listed below are encouraged to reach out to their primary care providers to either test for measles immunity with a blood test, or to receive one or two doses of measles-mumps-rubella vaccine (MMR).
If there is a case of measles on campus, you may be required to prove that you have immunity before you are permitted to return to campus.
Can you prove that you are protected? Consider which of the following statements best describes you:
I was born before January 1, 1957.
You are considered to have immunity. No additional action needed.
I know that I am protected and I have proof.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control, to prove your immunity, you must have:
- Vaccination records showing two doses of MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) or measles vaccine,
- Medical report stating that you were previously infected with measles, or
- Lab evidence (documentation of measles titer testing indicating acceptable level of immunity)
I think that I am protected, but I do not have proof and/or am not sure.
If you have no vaccination records or are unsure of your level of protection, a blood test called a titer will confirm your level of immunity. You can get a measles titer through your primary healthcare provider. Contact your insurance carrier for coverage information.
I am not protected.
For protection, you need two doses of the measles or MMR vaccine. This vaccine is available through:
- Your primary healthcare provider and walk-in clinics. Contact your insurance carrier for coverage information.
Measles Titer Testing Instructions
Measles Titer testing is always available (with a prescription from your provider) at the Quest lab located in McCosh Health Center.
Getting a Measles/MMR Vaccine
Most primary care providers, walk-in clinics, and primary and urgent care clinics provide the measles vaccine, normally in the form of the MMR. Check with your insurance carrier regarding your plan benefits.
About Measles
Measles is a highly contagious virus spread through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes and sore throat, followed by a rash. Protection from Measles is given by the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Measles is a common disease in many parts of the world. Teenagers and adults who do not have evidence of immunity should get two doses of MMR vaccine separated by at least 28 days before any international travel.
Recent cases across the United States show that measles is still a concern, and people are encouraged to check their protection status against the disease.
For More Information
Websites
- Measles - US Centers for Disease Control
- Measles FAQ - NJ Department of Health
- Measles in New Jersey - NJ Department of Health
- Exposed to Measles? - NJ Department of Health
Frequently Asked Questions
Regional Measles Alerts
Background
A threat of measles outbreak on the Princeton University campus was successfully contained in February 2015. Additional precautionary testing took place in summer 2019.