The Philadelphia Department of Public Health is urging residents to get the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine amid concerns over measles, which remains a significant health threat despite being preventable through vaccination. According to the City of Philadelphia, individuals who are not immune to measles, including children who haven't completed their vaccine series and adults born after 1957 who have not been vaccinated, are advised to get vaccinated to safeguard their health.
Vaccination guidelines recommend that children receive their first dose of MMR between 12–15 months and a second dose between 4–6 years old. Even those over 6 years old who have not completed the full series should consider vaccination. Adults also have specific criteria, including those uncertain of their vaccination history—particularly individuals vaccinated between 1963 and 1968—or those who have received only one dose but belong to high-risk categories, such as health care workers or individuals living with someone who has a compromised immune system.
For those planning to travel, the department emphasizes the importance of vaccination at least two weeks prior to departure. This includes an early additional dose for children between 6-11 months and early completion of the recommended two-dose series for older children and adults. "If you’ve already received two routine vaccine doses, you don’t need any more, even if you were exposed to measles since the MMR vaccines provide lifelong protection," the health authority notes, as reported by the City of Philadelphia.
In the event of measles exposure, the vaccine may still be effective if administered within three days for those who were not previously fully vaccinated. With a reported efficacy of 93% after one dose and 97% after two doses, the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of contracting measles. A statement from the health department, released on the city's official website, emphasizes the vaccine's importance for community immunity: "9 out of 10 unvaccinated people who are exposed will get measles."
To facilitate access to the vaccine, the City of Philadelphia provides free MMR vaccination at various City Health Centers across the city. Locations include Health Center 3, Health Center 4, Health Center 5 Annex, Mattie L. Humphrey Health Center (Health Center 9), and Strawberry Mansion Health Center, with vaccinations available Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 1 pm. Furthermore, individuals without insurance need not worry, as these clinics welcome everyone regardless of insurance status. Alternative venues include pediatricians' offices or retail pharmacies, though it’s recommended to call ahead for specific age requirements.
The Department of Public Health has also made available educational resources on measles vaccination, which can be found in multiple languages under the Infectious Disease section of their website. This includes an MMR vaccine flyer and a measles travel infographic designed to help the public understand the risks and preventive measures associated with measles.
