(NAPSI) —As a Parent, I am aware that getting ready for a trip abroad with kids entails more than just packing luggage. Protecting our family’s health comes first, whether we’re reuniting with long-lost relatives or extending our kids’ horizons. As a medical expert, I stress that getting vaccinated against measles is an important step to take before to traveling overseas, in addition to packing necessities like baggage and socks. It is imperative that every member of your family, even newborns as young as six months old, have a measles vaccination.

Measles can occur anywhere in the world, especially when traveling abroad, even though the danger of contracting the disease is still minimal in the United States because of high vaccination rates. Each year, unvaccinated Americans who travel overseas get measles, becoming unwell when they return, and frequently spreading the illness. Measles is not merely a slight rash; it is a serious infection that poses a particular risk to young children. It is also extremely contagious, with one sick person being able to infect nine out of 10 unvaccinated people in their vicinity.

Fortunately, two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine offer robust, lasting protection against measles. Although most children receive their first MMR dose around age one, infants as young as six months traveling internationally should receive an early dose to safeguard them during vulnerable periods. Moreover, children aged one to four should receive a second dose before international travel for optimal protection, even if they’ve already had one dose after the age of four.

Why risk exposure when traveling when you can safeguard your entire family through vaccination? It takes around two weeks for the vaccine to take effect, so making travel plans in advance is essential. Not that you’re leaving anytime soon—an MMR shot is always a good idea. It’s important to remember that young people or college students who are traveling may need to get vaccinated if they missed any shots as children. I strongly advise you to speak with your healthcare physician about the measles vaccination—having the assurance that your family is immune to the illness is invaluable.

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