Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus that can remain in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. Fortunately, people who are fully vaccinated with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine have a low risk of infection.
Below are some common questions about measles outbreaks and prevention, as well as details on vaccine and antibody testing coverage for Independence Blue Cross (IBX) members.
Q: How is this year’s measles outbreak in the U.S. different from other years?
A: Minor outbreaks of measles happen every year in the U.S. This year’s outbreak is more concerning because of its size and the fact that cases continue to grow. The country also saw three deaths from the virus. This year, the measles outbreak is on track to be the largest the U.S. has seen in six years.
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 signs and symptoms of the measles?
A: 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 after later a red rash will 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: People born before 1957 are generally thought to be immune to measles because they likely had it as a child. Those born between 1957 and 1975 who have had one dose of a measles-containing vaccine and are not in a high-risk setting for measles transmission should also be protected. Most people born after 1975 should be immune if they received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine.
Q: Does IBX cover vaccines for the measles?
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: Does Medicare cover antibody testing and vaccines for measles?
A: Medicare Part B covers medically necessary clinical diagnostic laboratory tests when ordered by a healthcare provider. This includes blood tests like the MMR titer, which is used to diagnose or rule out a suspected illness like measles. Medicare Part D covers the MMR vaccine when it is prescribed by a healthcare provider and obtained at an approved pharmacy or healthcare provider.
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 for measles antibodies (IgM). This testing is used to help determine an individual’s immune status to the measles virus. IBX Members can get this 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.