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To: Maine Library Staff
From: Maine Immunization Program
Subject: Measles Information and Educational Resources for Maine Libraries
Date: March 6, 2026
Dear Library Staff,
We are reaching out to share information about measles and ask for your support in helping to educate your community. Maine has recently identified its first measles cases since 2019, making this an important time to ensure the public has access to accurate, reliable information to stay protected.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air or on a surface for up to two hours after an infected individual has left the area. The good news is that measles can be prevented through vaccination. One dose of the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine is about 93% effective, and two doses is around 97% effective at preventing measles.
Public libraries play a vital role in communities and are widely recognized as trusted sources of health information. With nearly all Mainers living near a public library, libraries are uniquely positioned to help share evidence-based information, especially to underserved and rural areas.
We are including a short list of books and materials that may be helpful for educating the public on measles and the importance of vaccination.
Suggested book titles:
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The Measles Files (Marnie's Medical Mysteries) – Ruth Redford
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The Vaccine-Friendly Plan: Paul's Safe and Effective Approach to Immunity and Health-from Pregnancy Through Your Child's Teen Years - by Paul Thomas M.D. (Author), Jennifer Margulis (Author)
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A Vaccine Is Like a Memory – by Rajani LaRocca (Author), Kathleen Marcotte (Illustrator)
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The Secret Life of Viruses: Incredible Science Facts about Germs, Vaccines, and What You Can Do to Stay Healthy - by Mariona Tolosa Sisteré (Author), Ellas Educan Collective (Author)
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Turtles All The Way Down: Vaccine Science and Myth -by Anonymous (Author), Zoey O'Toole (Editor), Mary Holland J.D. (Editor, Foreword)
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Booster Shots: The Urgent Lessons of Measles and the Uncertain Future of Children's Health - by Adam Ratner
Resources:
Thank you for the important role you play in Maine communities statewide. Your efforts to provide this information will certainly make a difference. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like additional resources.
Sincerely,
The Maine Immunization Program
ImmunizeME.DHHS@maine.gov
(207) 287-3746
https://www.ImmunizeME.org
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