As the number of confirmed measles cases continues to climb here in the United States, officials with TRICARE are reminding people that the “best defense against measles is getting vaccinated.”
In a statement, Eric Deussing, who is the Public Health Emergency Officer for the Defense Health Agency, said, “It’s important to take steps to keep you and your loved ones protected and learn how to recognize potential symptoms. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provide the best protection against measles.”1
The MMR vaccine protects against measles as well as mumps and rubella. This vaccine is available to patients aged >12 months. The measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine protects against these illnesses as well as chickenpox. This vaccine is only available to children aged 12 months through 12 years.
Both the MMR and MMRV vaccines are administered in 2 doses. Children aged <12 years should get the first dose between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second between 4 and 6 years of age.
Older children, teenagers, and adults should get 1 or 2 doses of the MMR vaccine if they don’t have evidence of immunity. Doses should be given at least 28 days apart.
TRICARE covers age-appropriate doses of these vaccines, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They are available at no cost to TRICARE members who go to a military hospital or clinic, a retail network pharmacy, or a TRICARE-authorized civilian provider. Members living overseas can get vaccinated at a local military hospital or clinic or by a TRICARE-authorized civilian provider.
Patients with additional questions about the measles or getting an MMR or MMRV vaccine are encouraged to discuss with a healthcare provider or contact the Nurse Advice Line.
Reference
- TRICARE Communications. Measles cases on the rise in the U.S.: recognize the symptoms and protect your family [press release]. April 17, 2025. Accessed April 23, 2025. https://newsroom.tricare.mil/News/TRICARE-News/Article/4157616/measles-cases-on-the-rise-in-the-us-recognize-the-symptoms-and-protect-your-fam