Measles
Stay Connected
Report a Case
Disease Reporting Line:
(808) 586-4586
Questions?
Current Situation
The number of measles cases continues to increase in the U.S. and worldwide, with outbreaks occurring in several states and a number of countries, including Japan and the Philippines. Although Hawaii has not experienced any recent measles outbreaks, with the large number of visitors to our state, it is important for our population to be protected against this highly contagious disease.
Impact in Hawaii
In 2019, so far (01/01/19 – 09/03/19), there has been one (1) confirmed case of measles in Hawaii. The Hawaii resident contracted measles while traveling in another state. Since the individual is a Hawaii resident, they are officially counted as Hawaii’s case. The individual acquired measles this summer in a state with known measles cases and was no longer infectious before traveling back to Hawaii, so there was no risk of transmission of measles to Hawaii from this particular individual.
What Can I Do?
Make sure you are immune. In general, persons with at least one of the following may be considered protected from measles:
- Written record of adequate measles vaccination (see below)
- Blood test showing you are immune to measles or have had the disease
- Born before 1957*
*Studies suggest 95 – 98% of those born before 1957 are immune to measles.
Adequate vaccination with the MMR vaccine:
| Children | Two doses, at least 28 days apart. The first dose is typically given at age 12-15 months and the second dose routinely at 4-6 years. |
| Adults | At least one dose for adults born during or after 1957 |
| College/university students | Two doses, at least 28 days apart |
| International travelers | Infants aged 6-11 months: one dose** Children aged 12 months and older: two doses, at least 28 days apart Adults born during or after 1957: two doses, at least 28 days apart |
| Healthcare personnel | Two doses, at least 28 days apart*** |
**Infants who receive a dose of MMR vaccine before their first birthday should receive two more doses according to the routinely recommended schedule.
Note: Travelers to the U.S. mainland should talk to their healthcare provider.
Information for Clinicians
***Although birth before 1957 is considered acceptable evidence of immunity, healthcare facilities should consider vaccinating unvaccinated personnel who were born before 1957 and do not have laboratory evidence of immunity.
Healthcare providers should report any suspected cases of measles to DOH immediately by calling the disease reporting line at (808) 586-4586.