Measles outbreak leads to high demand for MMR vaccine

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Measles cases have surpassed over 200 across the U.S this year, with a majority coming from West Texas outbreaks. The rising cases is leading to a higher demand for the highly effective vaccine.

The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine offers 97% protection from the measles virus after receiving both doses.

Rio Grande Valley Pediatrician Dr. Jason Burrell said he expects the vaccine to be in high demand as concern grows for the highly contagious disease. The New Horizon Health Center where he works offers the vaccine, even if you do not have insurance.

“I think we will see a lot more people get vaccinated just because it’s getting a lot of publicity right now if nothing else," Dr. Burrell said.

As of Friday, nearly two dozen people were hospitalized in Texas with measles.

Doctors are urging the public to get the MMR vaccine for maximum protection.

“Over the years, vaccination rates have plummeted and we want at least about a 95% vaccination rate for things like measles because of the rate of spread of these kinds of things," Dr. Burrell said.

Some Texas cities have reported a shortage of the MMR vaccine as the demand grows.

Dr. Burrell said its a cause for concern as many people are expected to travel for spring break and the disease is easily spreadable.

“I am worried about it in that it would be horrible for people wanting to go get the vaccine and not being able to get it," he said. "I would encourage the powers that be in the Texas health system to do whatever they need to do to make sure there’s adequate supply.”

The MMR vaccine is still available and being administered at local health clinics. However, some local pharmacies do not carry the vaccine.

Doctors say it's not too late to receive protection from the vaccine, even if you've come into contact with measles before receiving it.