Did you know that there’s currently a measles outbreak in West Texas?

Since late January, over 200 cases of measles have been identified in the South Plains region of Texas, and more than 30 cases have been reported in Lea County, New Mexico, which borders Texas.ÌýÌý
What is measles?Ìý
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that causes high fever, cough, runny nose, red, watery eyes and a rash.ÌýMeasles spreads through coughing and sneezing and can cause serious health complications.Ìý
What’s the best way to protect myself?Ìý
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provides the best protection against measles. This vaccine provides long-lasting (lifelong in most cases) protection against measles.ÌýÌý
How can I tell if I’ve received the MMR vaccine?Ìý
You can tell if you have received the MMR vaccine by looking at your childhood immunization record.ÌýÌý
You can obtain this record in a number of ways:Ìý
State recordsÌý
Many states offer a vaccine registry that details the vaccines you’ve received in that state. Those who have been vaccinated in Colorado can access their record through the .ÌýChildhood physician officeÌý
You can also reach out to your childhood physician’s office to check if they have a record of your vaccines.ÌýPrimary school recordsÌý
Most states require proof of the MMR vaccine if you attended public school. Depending on when you attended, your primary school may still have your vaccine records.ÌýCU requirementsÌý
Most students submit a copy of their MMR vaccine record as part of their health requirements. You can review uploaded records by visiting the Immunization Requirements page in your . The immunization rate for MMR on campus at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú´«Ã½ÎÄ»¯×÷Æ· is > 95% of enrolled students.Ìý
What if I’m unsure about my vaccine status or immunity?Ìý
If you do not have an immunization record or are unsure if you have received the MMR vaccine, Medical Services can perform a blood test to determine if you are vaccinated. Those with a valid vaccine record do not need to be tested.Ìý
Learn moreÌý
Learn more about the and .Ìý
FAQsÌý
How do I know if I received two doses of the MMR vaccine?ÌýÌý
You can reach out to your childhood physician’s office, visit state vaccine registries ( or check with your primary school for records.ÌýÌý
What if I am unsure about my vaccine status or immunity?Ìý
If you do not have an immunization record or are unsure if you have received the MMR vaccine, Medical Services can perform a blood test to determine if you are vaccinated. Those with a valid vaccine record do not need to be tested.Ìý
Is blood testing covered by my insurance?ÌýÌý
Please call your insurance company to verify if testing is covered.Ìý
Is the MMR vaccine covered by insurance?Ìý
Routine vaccines, such as the MMR, are typically covered by insurance plans. To determine any out-of-pocket costs, please call your insurance company.Ìý