02/05/2026
Measles is often thought of as “just a rash,” but from an allergy and immunology perspective, its impact is far more serious.
Beyond the fever and skin findings, measles can cause what scientists call “immune amnesia”
For patients with asthma, immune deficiency, mast cell disease, or other chronic inflammatory conditions, this risk is especially meaningful. Measles can worsen respiratory disease, trigger complications, and place added strain on already vulnerable immune systems.
This is why prevention matters. The MMR vaccine protects not only against measles, but also helps preserve overall immune health — and community immunity protects those who cannot be vaccinated.
At Allergy & Immunology Associates of New England (AIANE), we see every day how interconnected immunity truly is.
This is more than medicine — it’s protecting lives, long-term health, and our most vulnerable patients.