There are many questions regarding the measles outbreak in Mexico City; one of the most frequent is whether you can get vaccinated if you have symptoms of cough and flu.
According to the National Center for Child and Adolescent Health and the Mexican Association of Vaccinology, you can get the measles vaccine with a cough and flu, as long as you do not have a fever.
If your illness is moderate or severe and compromises your immune system, it is best to wait until you feel better before getting the vaccine.
In either case, we recommend that you consult your doctor for more information.
People who cannot be vaccinated against measles are:
- Pregnant women.
- People with anaphylaxis or severe allergies to the vaccine.
- People with severe immunodeficiency, or who are undergoing treatment that lowers their defenses.
- People with serious illnesses and fever.
- Patients with severe immunosuppression: those undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppressive treatment, or transplants.
Who can get the vaccine?
- Children under 12 and 18 months of age, as part of the routine schedule.
- People aged 10 to 49 who receive a booster shot.
- Healthcare workers, people who travel frequently (within and outside the country), and people in contact with foreigners.
- People born before 1957 do not need to be vaccinated. This is because, before that year, the vaccine did not exist, so this group may have contracted measles and is immune.
Where can I get vaccinated?
If you meet the above requirements and want to get a booster shot, go to one of the various vaccination centers in Mexico City. Scan this QR code to find your nearest center; remember that the vaccine is free of charge.