We did indeed get our measles shots last week, (MMR) even though at our age we're almost certainly immune. But DH raised a question last night: should we get a vaccination certification before our upcoming (looming) trip to France? I think he had heard some news that some places were demanding proof of vaccination.
I haven't seen anything about this being a problem in France, but I thought I'd better ask.
Thanks.
It's good to have the certification as proof when traveling abroad to avoid detainment.
Just flew into Ireland Switzerland and The Netherlands last week on planes full of other Americans and no questions about immunization to Measles came up with the border police in any of those places
Another thing for people to know is that there are at least two kinds of measles. I was born just before the start of vaccination. My mother says I had the measles but she isn't sure what kind. I think I will just get the MMR and play it safe. Also, its my understanding that at least for MN and perhaps other states, the brand of vaccine during the 60s, is not considered to be as effective as others.
There is only one measles but there is also Rubella sometimes called 'German measles' which is much less severe for the person who has it but causes catastrophic birth defects if contracted in the first 3 mos of pregnancy.
Ah yes, Jane, you're right. I do recall lining up in school to get the "German" measles vaccine. Funny how we used to do things.
I certainly hope that proof of vaccination does not become required anywhere. I had to get a titre in 1997 to prove that I'm immune since I had chickenpox, measles, mumps and rubella in first grade but I no longer have the paperwork.
I would be surprised if adults are ever required to show proof of immunization for childhood diseases. Where they need to tighten up the requirements are daycares, schools, and colleges.
I have traveled al over the world for decades and while vaccinations were recommended some places I have yet to be required to show proof (not that we might not some times encounter that). I had all the childhood diseases like measles, mumps, chicken pox and so am naturally immune. The most important vaccines for adults to make sure they have updated are hep A which is a risk any time you eat in a restaurant whether you travel or not, measles and DPT -- as the latter wears off and pertusis is making a big comeback and is lethal to babies not yet vaccinated. And of course if you have even a minor injury you can be exposed to tetenus so having that up to date is wise. We got ours boosted with the birth of each of our grandkids who were almost 10 years apart and so the timing was good. Anyone around infants needs a DPT booster. Since measles is now endemic in Israel and part of Europe and being imported regularly into the US, being up to date on that one is also important.
As far as I'm aware, the only such restriction is for certain tropical countries where you have to show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter. Nowhere in Europe.
Well, I am religious about carrying around my vaccine cards since adult travel in 1976. I use mine to remember when I last had tetanus, typhoid booster, etc. My yellow fever card fits into the same plastic sleeve.
I am actually quite surprised that the facility who gave you the MMR didn't give you a card or ask to fill in your existing one. Maybe you can call and ask them to provide one. I would rather have proof than lose an argument with some foreign official that I need it again. France is less a concern but I have travelled enough developing countries I didn't want to have to worry about their methods or cleanliness of equipment......no doubt you have heard the news of entire cruise ships being force to vaccinate....
I am actually quite surprised that the facility who gave you the MMR didn't give you a card or ask to fill in your existing one.
We don’t routinely get such cards in the U.S.
Laura, thanks for the lesson in country differences. These days, young Canadians have the details on an app linked to a databse. It is such an important reference for personal health care. Boggles the mind.
