Measles Outbreaks Prompt Urgent Call for Nursing Home Staff

With more than 700 measles cases now confirmed across 25 U.S. states, health experts are urging nursing home providers and long-term care facilities to take action. As the measles outbreak continues to grow, especially in states like Texas, organizations are stressing the need for vaccinating nursing home staff to protect vulnerable residents.

The Post-Acute and Long-Term Medical Care Association (PALTMed) is leading the charge, asking providers to assess their staff’s measles immunity and promote vaccination. While many older adults are assumed to be immune, the risk is higher for healthcare workers, particularly those born after 1957.

Why Measles Immunity Matters in Nursing Homes

Most seniors likely have natural immunity due to exposure before the measles vaccine became widely available. However, people vaccinated between 1963 and 1989 may not have full protection and could need a booster. According to a federal advisory group, healthcare workers without proof of immunity should be vaccinated, even if born before 1957, if they haven’t had the disease or a reliable test showing immunity.

With nursing home residents often being immunocompromised, even mild cases of measles among staff can lead to serious health risks. This makes infection control and vaccination a top priority.

Growing Challenges and Limited Resources

In Texas, where over 560 measles cases have been reported, including more than 150 in adults, some efforts to host measles vaccine clinics were canceled after losing federal grant support. This has made it more difficult for providers to organize staff vaccination campaigns, especially in rural or underserved areas.

Despite the CDC choosing not to update its risk guidance recently, aging care associations and provider groups have stepped in to help fill the gap. They continue to remind families and staff that herd immunity is only possible if enough people are vaccinated.

Protecting Long-Term Care Communities

The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care is encouraging residents and families to talk to healthcare providers about the need for a measles vaccine or booster. It also urges facilities to maintain strong infection prevention and control programs as required by federal regulations.

The American Health Care Association has published updated measles guidance for providers and emphasized that the best defense is proactive action.

“Vaccines are extremely safe and effective,” the association said. “It takes a collective effort to create herd immunity, and we all need to do our part to keep others safe.”

As the measles outbreak spreads, keeping nursing home staff vaccinated and prepared is crucial for preventing serious health complications among residents.