What is measles and what are the symptoms?
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and typically include:
- High fever, typically between 103- and 105-degrees Fahrenheit
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Rash that starts on the face and spreads downward across the body
How can I prevent measles?
Vaccinate your children.
Due to a locally acquired case of measles not linked to other known cases, an accelerated MMR vaccination schedule should be considered and discussed with eligible and interested patients. While the routine MMR schedule is one dose at 12–15 months and a second dose at 4–6 years, additional options for earlier protection include:
- An early extra dose of MMR between 6 and 11 months of age ("dose 0"); this dose does NOT count toward the routine series.
- The first routine dose (dose 1) can be given after 12 months of age, at least 28 days after dose 0.
- The second routine dose (dose 2) can be given at least 28 days after dose 1, instead of waiting until age 4-6 years.
Limit travel/exposure in outbreak areas.
Measles is the most contagious respiratory virus ever studied, far more than influenza or even COVID. During active measles outbreaks, consider postponing travel to affected areas where the virus has been known to spread. This is particularly important for infants under 12 months who are too young for vaccination and are at a higher risk for severe complications.
Call your doctor.
If you're concerned about possible symptoms AND may have been exposed to an infected individual (via travel or unvaccinated contact), call your provider first. Due to the highly contagious nature of the virus, your provider will screen for potential cases of measles prior to scheduling an office visit.