The Indiana State Department of Health has established a hotline to help answer questions from the general public.
- The hotline number is 1-877-826-0011 (TTY/TTD 1-888-561-0044).
- State Health Department staff will be on-hand during the hours of 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., Monday through Friday to answer questions.
- Note: Immunization status cannot be verified through this hotline. Individuals unsure of vaccination status are encouraged to contact your health care provider, as they have access to the Indiana Immunization Registry.
Call Center Top 5 Q&A:
- Why am I considered immune if I was born prior to 1957? What if I don’t remember having the measles or the vaccine?
Answer: Prior to the advent of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine in 1963, measles was endemic in the U.S. Many children got measles during that time and developed antibodies to prevent reoccurrence of disease. It was considered one of the “childhood diseases” that most kids got. Your health care provider may be able to check your immunization status through the Indiana Immunization Registry, CHIRP, or can test you for immunity.
- What if I don’t know my immune status?
Answer: If you are unsure, you can ask your local health department or health care provider to check your vaccination record. Two doses of MMR are needed to be fully protected.
- What kind of protection do I get from the vaccine?
Answer: the MMR vaccine is very good at protecting you from measles. Most people will develop antibodies (immunity) with the first dose, but the second dose is needed to boost that immunity and will fully protect 99% of individuals who receive it.
- What about my child that is less than 1 year of age? Can I take them out in public since they are too young for vaccine?
Answer: Yes. You and your family may continue with normal activities. The State Health Department and local health officials are working with the known cases and then reaching out to those who may have been exposed to make sure they are protected. You can also speak with your pediatrician or health care provider
- If my child receives a vaccination before 12 months of age (common age for first MMR vaccination), does that count as a valid dose or will he/she still need two doses?
Answer: Children as young as 6 months can receive an MMR vaccine in the event of an outbreak, however vaccinations given prior to 12 months of age will not “count” for school entry purposes in Indiana. Please consult with your pediatrician or health care provider.
Measles Quick Facts
2010 Measles Quick Facts
Additional Resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention