Can You Lack Measles Antibodies After Vaccination?

Is it possible to not produce antibodies after receiving the measles vaccine?

I need to provide proof of my measles antibodies because I am going to study in the United States.
However, I couldn't find my vaccination record from childhood, so I went to the hospital to have a blood test.
I initially thought this would be sufficient, but the results showed that I do not have measles antibodies (non-positive).
Why could this happen? If I need to get re-vaccinated, do I need to receive two doses? (Because the form sent by the school in the U.S.
requires two doses.)

A-Qin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/08/05

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine

Hello, vaccination does not guarantee lifelong immunity.
In fact, it provides protection for a certain period of time (usually a long duration).
In a small number of individuals, antibodies may wane and become undetectable.
If you are studying abroad, you will need to provide proof of vaccination.
It is recommended that you obtain a certificate from the hospital or health center where you received your childhood vaccinations.
If you are truly unable to provide proof and the hospital's test results confirm a negative result, you may have no choice but to endure another round of vaccinations.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I hope the above information resolves your concerns.
Hualien Hospital, Dr.
Tsai Jue-Ren.

Reply Date: 2006/08/05

More Info

The situation you are facing regarding measles antibodies after vaccination is not uncommon. While the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is highly effective, there are instances where individuals may not develop detectable antibodies after vaccination. This can occur for several reasons:
1. Vaccine Response Variability: The immune response to vaccines can vary from person to person. Some individuals may not produce enough antibodies to be detected in standard blood tests, even after receiving the recommended doses of the vaccine. This variability can be influenced by factors such as age, health status, and genetic factors.

2. Timing of Testing: If the blood test was conducted too soon after vaccination, it might not accurately reflect your antibody levels. Antibody production can take time, and testing too early may yield a false negative result.

3. Immunity Duration: While the MMR vaccine provides long-lasting immunity for most people, some individuals may experience a decline in antibody levels over time. This is particularly relevant for those who received their vaccinations many years ago.

4. Laboratory Variability: Different laboratories may have varying thresholds for what constitutes a positive result. It’s possible that your antibody levels are low but still provide some level of protection, which may not be reflected in the test results.

Given your situation, if you need to demonstrate immunity for school requirements in the U.S., it is advisable to follow the guidelines provided by the institution. Since they require proof of immunity, they may recommend revaccination. Here are some important points regarding revaccination:
- Revaccination Protocol: If you are advised to receive the MMR vaccine again, it is typically recommended to receive two doses, spaced at least 28 days apart. This is in line with the standard vaccination schedule for individuals who may not have sufficient immunity.

- Documentation: After receiving the vaccine, ensure that you obtain documentation from the healthcare provider. This documentation will serve as proof of vaccination and can be submitted to your school.

- Consultation with Healthcare Provider: It is essential to discuss your specific situation with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your medical history, the results of your antibody test, and provide personalized recommendations regarding vaccination.

- Consideration of Other Vaccines: If you have received other vaccines recently, such as the COVID-19 vaccine or flu vaccine, it is generally recommended to wait at least 14 days before receiving the MMR vaccine. This helps to ensure that your immune system can respond effectively to each vaccine.

In summary, while it is concerning to find that you lack measles antibodies after vaccination, it is not an uncommon scenario. Revaccination is a viable option to ensure you meet the immunity requirements for your studies in the U.S. Always consult with a healthcare professional for tailored advice and to ensure that you are following the appropriate vaccination protocols.

Similar Q&A

How Soon Can You Test for Antibodies After German Measles Vaccination?

Hello, doctor: How long after receiving the German measles vaccine can I check for the presence of antibodies? If antibodies are not produced, should I receive a booster shot? Thank you!

Dr. Liu Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The German measles vaccine provides 95% protection. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend checking for antibody production after vaccination. If antibodies are not produced, there is no recommendation for a booster shot. If you are con...

Does Vaccine Leakage During Pediatric Injections Affect Antibody Production?

Hello, Doctor He: When the child received the measles and varicella vaccines at one year of age, some of the vaccine was not fully administered due to struggling. Will this affect the production of antibodies?

Dr. He Zongxian reply Pediatrics
Hello, if it is confirmed that the standard dosage of the vaccine has not been fully administered, the effectiveness of this vaccination will be compromised. It is recommended that you discuss with your physician whether a booster is necessary based on your clinical condition at ...

Do Adults Get Permanent Scars from Measles? Understanding the Risks

Hello, I remember receiving the measles vaccine when I was a child. Since I will be traveling to Vietnam (a measles-endemic area) in a few months, I would like to ask if an adult who was vaccinated as a child could still contract measles if their antibodies have weakened over tim...

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology
Hello: For detailed information about measles, you can refer to the CDC's data at https://www.cdc.gov.tw/File/Get/eH0KllYdi__tvUdV8al0lA. Generally, measles does not leave permanent scars unless there is a secondary bacterial infection caused by wounds. After infection, life...

Understanding Hepatitis B Antibody Absence: When to Seek Further Testing

I underwent a school entrance health examination, which indicated that I had no antibodies. I subsequently had blood tests after receiving three doses of the vaccine, but still showed no antibodies. After waiting another six months and getting tested again, the results were still...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, approximately 10-15% of individuals who receive the hepatitis B vaccine are unable to produce antibodies. If an individual fails to produce antibodies, it is likely due to their own physiological characteristics, and administering additional doses of the vaccine is unlikel...