What Are The Chances Of Getting Measles In Vaccinated Adult?

Posted on Mon, 30 Mar 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 30 Mar 2015 Answered on

Wed, 15 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Is it possible to have measles as an adult even with all vaccinations? I am 45 and never had measles/chicken poxs. The red bumps are going down both ears to my neck and my arms.

Answered by Dr. Amitkumar Maheshwari (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Measles can't occur in vaccinated adult

Detailed Answer:
This is Dr Amit. Let me help you in this case.

Measles will not occur in adult who are previously vaccinated. The optimum age for the measles is under 6-8 years of age. And it is classically presented with a high fever which begins about 10 to 12 days after exposure to the virus and lasts 4 to 7 days. A runny nose, a cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks can develop in the initial stage. After several days a rash erupts usually on the face and upper neck. Over about 3 days the rash spreads eventually reaching the hands and feet. The rash lasts for 5 to 6 days and then fades. From the picture which you have attached it does not look like measles. It seems allergic reaction.

Chickenpox caused by varicella-zoster virus can occur in adults. However as I said, from the picture it looks more like an urticarial rash secondary to allergy. I will advice you don't get panic and consult dermatologist ASAP.

Feel free to ask if you have any other doubts
Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad