Recent measles outbreaks across the United States have led many people to ask questions about measles, vaccination, immunity, and health insurance coverage. While measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, outbreaks can still occur when the disease is brought into communities with lower vaccination rates. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Be Ready for Measles toolkit notes that measles remains highly contagious and that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection.
Independence Blue Cross (IBX) continues to cover routine preventive measles-containing vaccines, including the MMR vaccine, as well as measles antibody testing when appropriate under a member’s plan benefits.
Below are some common questions about measles outbreaks and prevention, as well as details on vaccine and antibody testing coverage for IBX members.
Q: How is this year’s measles outbreak in the U.S. different from other years?
A: Measles cases continue to be reported in multiple states across the country. While measles was eliminated in the United States in 2000, outbreaks can still occur when the virus is introduced into communities with lower vaccination rates. Members should follow guidance from public health officials and talk with their health care provider if they have questions about their risk or vaccination status.
Q: Why is it so important to get vaccinated?
A: Getting vaccinated is important for children as well as adults who do not have evidence of immunity against measles. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one dose of the MMR vaccine is about 93 percent effective, and two doses are about 97 percent effective. Vaccinations can also help prevent serious illness, school or work absences, and control outbreaks in the community. When enough of a community has been vaccinated, the likelihood of having transmission within that community becomes exceedingly unlikely.
Q: What are the signs and symptoms of measles?
A: Measles are highly contagious and can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening complications. Measles symptoms usually show up seven to 14 days after being exposed to the virus. They may include a high fever (over 104°F), cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. If you have the virus, two to three days after symptoms start, tiny white spots (Koplik spots) may appear inside the mouth. Then, three to five days later a red rash may develop. The rash may start on the face near the hairline and spread down the rest of the body. Small, raised bumps will likely form on top of the flat red spots. The spots and bumps can merge as they spread.
Q: How does someone know if they are protected against measles?
A: Most people are protected against measles through previous vaccination or prior infection. Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination history or immunity status should talk with their health care provider, who can determine whether vaccination or antibody testing may be appropriate.
Q: Does IBX cover measles vaccines?
A: Yes. While there is no licensed measles-only vaccine in the United States, measles is included in combination vaccines that also protect against mumps and rubella. IBX covers the MMR vaccine and a combination measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella vaccine (MMRV) with no member cost-share. Click here for more details on when the measles containing vaccines are covered for IBX members.
Q: Can babies under 12 months old receive the MMR vaccine during an outbreak?
A: Yes, during a measles outbreak, the MMR vaccine is covered by IBX. The vaccine is covered as a preventive service for babies ages six to 11 months who are identified as being at an increased risk. However, this early dose will not count towards a child’s routine vaccine schedule. When a child turns 12 months old, they should still receive the routine MMR vaccine doses, which are also covered by IBX.
Q: What are the vaccine recommendations for someone who has been exposed to measles?
A: The CDC recommends an unvaccinated person should receive 1 dose of the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure and a second dose to be completed within 28 days of exposure.
Q: What should someone do if they are unsure of their immunity to measles?
A: Any adult who is unsure of their immunization status should first check their vaccination records for documentation of measles immunity. If they are not vaccinated, they should get a measles vaccine. If they are unable to find their records and are unaware if they have been vaccinated, they should discuss with their healthcare provider.
Q: Does IBX cover laboratory testing for measles antibodies?
A: Yes, IBX covers laboratory testing (IgG and IgM) for measles antibodies. This testing is used to help determine an individual’s immune status to the measles virus. IBX members can get testing done at a laboratory site of service. For those members with an HMO plan, antibody testing is covered at their primary care physician’s capitated laboratory site.
Anyone that has been exposed to the measles or has signs or symptoms of the virus should call their healthcare provider. They can help evaluate their symptoms and walk them through next steps.
Media contact:
Diana Quattrone
215-815-7828 (cell)
diana.quattrone@ibx.com