Check Your Measles Vaccination Status

A recent cluster of measles cases in Orleans County, plus larger outbreaks in nearby states, means that all Vermonters should check their measles vaccination status. Those who have not been immunized against measles should consider getting the shot, as the resurgence of measles is on our state’s doorstep. Some older Vermonters who were previously vaccinated as children may want to get a booster shot to ensure they are protected.

Northeast Kingdom Cases

A “small number” of measles cases in Orleans County have been confirmed by lab testing, the Vermont Department of Health announced Nov. 9. This follows a case in February in Washington County, where a person became sick following international travel. Two other measles cases were documented in Vermont in 2025.

The Health Department urged Vermonters who have not been vaccinated for measles to get the shot as soon as possible. Talk with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about being vaccinated. Vermonters who are unsure of their measles vaccination status can request their vaccination records.

Outbreaks in NY and PA

The resurgence of measles in the U.S. has become more widespread in the last year and is moving closer to Vermont. 

In January 2025, there was a large outbreak in West Texas that quickly spread to New Mexico. That outbreak resulted in about 1,200 cases between the two states. 

This year, an outbreak started in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and rapidly spread statewide. So far, more than 1,500 measles cases have been reported in the state, with almost 300 people hospitalized and six deaths. Almost all the cases were among unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals.

New York is also fighting a measles outbreak, with the governor declaring a state disaster emergency. More than 200 cases have been reported so far, with most of them in upstate rural counties, including Lewis County—about 100 miles from Vermont.

Measles Vaccination for Seniors

Most measles vaccination is done during childhood years, as the disease is especially dangerous for children. But some older people who got the shot when they were kids may not be fully protected and should consider getting an updated vaccine.

If you were born before 1957—when nearly everyone got the measles—you are generally considered immune. However, early measles shots given to some children in the 1960s were not as effective as the ones we have today and may not have provided lifelong protection. Specifically, one type of measles vaccine introduced in 1963 used an inactivated “killed” virus instead of a live virus. The killed version of the vaccine was discontinued in 1967 when it was determined the shot was ineffective. 

If you were vaccinated for measles between 1963 and 1967, you can check your immunization records to try to determine which version of the vaccine you received. You can also ask your healthcare provider for a measles titer test to see if you have measles antibodies in your blood. However, this lab test can result in false positives. The best way to protect yourself is to get a modern measles booster vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there is no harm in getting another dose of the measles vaccine, even if you previously had one. Blue Cross VT covers the measles vaccination with no out-of-pocket cost when using an in-network provider or pharmacy.

Answers to FAQs

It’s important to get the facts about measles and vaccination from reliable sources. Check out our blog article on what you need to know about measles. Your primary care provider will also be glad to answer any questions you have.