Vaccines Save Lives
At the National Medical Association (NMA), we affirm that immunization is one of the most powerful tools we have to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from infectious diseases.
For generations, vaccines have prevented countless cases of illness and saved millions of lives. From children and adolescents to adults and seniors, vaccination needs change based on age, location, health conditions, occupation, travel, and prior immunizations.
Staying up to date on recommended vaccines is a critical step toward advancing health equity and ensuring healthier futures for all communities.
NMA Statements on Public Health
AAP: Vaccine Schedules and Recommendations
Vaccines for Your Children
Learn which vaccines are recommended for each age to keep you and your family up to date. Click HERE to learn more.
Vaccinate Your Family: Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions about vaccines. We have answers. Click HERE to read more.
Vaccines.gov: Vaccine Finder
Find a pharmacy near you HERE.
COVID-19 Resources
NMA Measles Vaccination Toolkit
National Medical Association
Resource Overview: Measles
Updated September 8, 2025
The National Medical Association stands firmly for the use of evidence-based, scientifically proven vaccines as a key tool for public health. The information below is provided for physicians, health care workers and advocates to help educate the public on the importance of vaccinations and the dangers of measles infections.
At-a-glance
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses; up to 90% of unvaccinated close contacts may become infected.
Two MMR doses protect ~97% of people; one dose protects ~93%.
To stop outbreaks, communities generally need ~95% vaccination coverage.
Protecting children & the community matters
Measles can be devastating and fatal, especially for infants, pregnant people, and the immunocompromised. Complications include pneumonia, encephalitis, brain swelling, hearing loss, and death. Some survivors later develop SSPE, a rare but fatal neurologic disease.
Outbreaks disrupt schooling, work, and healthcare access—prevention through vaccination protects families and communities.
Measles vaccine has been used safely for decades
The measles vaccine has been used safely for decades and is a key reason measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. Safety monitoring over many years shows strong safety and effectiveness of MMR.
Reasons behind the current outbreak
Falling vaccination rates, rising non-medical exemptions, misinformation, and international travel are enabling outbreaks in under-vaccinated pockets. Vaccination restores the community shield that stops transmission. Two-dose MMR is the most effective way to prevent spread.
Who is at risk for severe complications
Even healthy children can develop severe complications; risks are greater for infants, pregnant people, and those with asthma, diabetes, or immunocompromise. The virus can also cause immune amnesia, weakening protection against other infections for months to years after illness.
Patient & Community Q&A
Does the measles vaccine contain harmful chemicals like thimerosal or mercury?
No. The MMR vaccine does not contain thimerosal or elemental mercury. It is supplied in single-dose vials and does not use preservatives like thimerosal.
Do the measles vaccine – or any vaccines – cause autism?
No. High-quality studies show no link between vaccines and autism. The original claim was discredited and retracted.
If measles was ‘eliminated’ in the U.S., why vaccinate?
Elimination means no continuous spread in the U.S., not that measles is gone worldwide. Travelers can bring measles into communities; vaccination prevents spread of the measles.
If most people survive measles, why vaccinate?
Survival isn’t the standard – preventing severe illness, disability, and death is. Even healthy children can suffer pneumonia, brain swelling, or death.
Does getting measles give you immunity?
Yes, most people who recover develop long-lasting immunity, but at great risk. Vaccination gives similar immunity without the dangers of illness.
Practical Guidance for Clinicians
Check records and offer MMR when indicated (1st dose at 12–15 months; 2nd at 4–6 years; catch-up schedules as needed).
During outbreaks or travel, follow accelerated schedules per public health guidance.
Report suspected cases promptly to local health departments; advise isolation.
Use strong recommendations: “I strongly recommend MMR today to protect your child and family.”
Sources
Public Health Communications Collaborative — ‘Measles’ topic hub. Accessed 2025.
HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics) — ‘How to Protect Your Children During a Measles Outbreak.’ Accessed 2025.
American Public Health Association — ‘Get the Facts on Measles.’ Accessed 2025.
World Health Organization — ‘Measles’ Fact Sheet. Accessed 2025.
NMA Vaccines Fact Sheet
National Medical Association
Resource Overview: Vaccines
Updated September 8, 2025
The National Medical Association stands firmly for the use of evidence-based, scientifically proven vaccines as a key tool for public health. The information below is provided for physicians, health care workers and advocates to help educate the public on the importance of vaccinations and why they matter for our communities.
How Vaccines Work
Vaccines teach your immune system to recognize and fight harmful germs like viruses and bacteria without making you sick. This “training” helps your body respond quickly if the real germ tries to infect you. Over time, this builds strong, long-lasting protection. They are developed by scientists and physicians and rigorously tested.
Vaccine Schedules for Children and Adults
Children follow an immunization schedule (e.g., MMR, polio, chickenpox, whooping cough) beginning in infancy and continuing through adolescence. This schedule is developed by physician experts. Pediatricians follow this schedule to ensure children are fully protected.
Adults may need vaccines too, even if they were vaccinated as a child. This includes flu shots every year, boosters like Tdap, and vaccines for shingles, pneumonia, or COVID-19, depending on their age, health and chronic conditions.
Vaccines & Community Immunity
When enough people are vaccinated, it protects the whole community—even those who can’t get vaccines due to illness or age.
This concept, known as herd immunity, helps stop the spread of dangerous diseases.
Diseases Controlled By Vaccinations
Smallpox was eradicated worldwide.
Polio is nearly eradicated in the U.S.
Cases of diphtheria, measles, mumps, and Hib meningitis have dropped dramatically. These diseases used to cause widespread illness, disability, and death.
Risks of Declines in U.S. Vaccination Rates
Outbreaks can return – like measles or whooping cough.
Children and vulnerable adults are at higher risk of severe illness, hospitalization, or death.
Preventable diseases can spread widely, reversing decades of progress.
Sources & Further Reading
World Health Organization — How do vaccines work. https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/how-do-vaccines-work
American Academy of Pediatrics — Immunization schedules. https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/immunizations/
American Public Health Association — Vaccines overview. https://www.apha.org/topics-and-issues/vaccines
