As measles cases rise in Mexico, many individuals are questioning their vaccination status and whether they need to complete their immunization schedule. Determining this requires checking vaccination records for documentation of the SRP (Triple Viral) or SR (Double Viral) vaccine.
The measles vaccine is a long-standing component of the national immunization program and is considered safe. However, it can cause mild, temporary side effects that indicate the immune system is responding effectively.
Common symptoms following vaccination include:
- Pain, redness, or sensitivity at the injection site.
- General discomfort.
- Headache, cough, or runny nose.
- Fever up to 100.4°F (38.5°C) between five and twelve days after the dose.
- Mild rash or swelling of the parotid glands.
Who Should Get Vaccinated Against Measles?
Vaccination is crucial, particularly for young children, who should receive doses according to the national schedule. The vaccine is listed as SRP (Triple Viral) on children’s vaccination cards, providing protection against measles, rubella, and mumps.
Children should have two documented doses:
- The first at 12 months of age.
- A booster dose according to the current schedule.
Adolescents and adults up to age 49 who do not have a record of completing their vaccination schedule should also get vaccinated. In these cases, the vaccine is identified as SR (Double Viral), protecting against measles and rubella. This is especially important given the recent increase in cases and the potential for wider outbreaks.
Certain groups are prioritized due to their increased exposure risk, including:
- Education personnel.
- Healthcare workers.
- Agricultural workers.
- Individuals who have had direct contact with confirmed cases.
Timely immunization in these sectors helps prevent chains of transmission.
Who Should Not Get Vaccinated?
There are specific situations where vaccination should be avoided or postponed. A prior assessment by healthcare personnel is essential.
The following individuals should not receive the measles vaccine:
- Pregnant women, as the vaccine contains live, attenuated viruses.
- Individuals with severe immunosuppression due to cancer, chemotherapy, or transplants.
- People with a history of anaphylaxis to the vaccine.
- Patients with moderate or severe acute illness at the time of vaccination.
In these cases, a doctor may recommend postponing vaccination or exploring alternative protective measures.
How Do You Know If You’ve Already Been Vaccinated?
Vaccination history is recorded in the five National Health Cards approved by institutions such as the IMSS, ISSSTE, and the Secretariat of Health.
To verify your vaccination schedule, you should:
- Locate your National Health Card.
- Find the section pertaining to vaccinations.
For children aged 0 to 9 years, look for the SRP (Triple Viral) section and verify that two doses are recorded.
For adolescents aged 10 to 19 years and adults up to 49 years, protection is identified as SR (Double Viral). It’s important to confirm at least one documented dose, though two doses may be required in some cases to ensure complete immunity.
If your vaccination card is lost or incomplete, individuals can visit their local health center for guidance. Medical personnel can determine if a repeat measles vaccination is necessary.
