Measles 101: How to Protect Yourself and Your Family

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that has been a significant public health concern for centuries. Despite being preventable outbreaks still occur in part due to gaps in vaccination coverage. Below is important information you should know about measles along with answers to frequently asked questions.

What is measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can cause fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads across the body.

Measles spreads through the air when a person who has measles coughs or sneezes. The virus can stay in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, making it easy to catch if you are not vaccinated.

What are the symptoms of measles?

Symptoms of measles typically appear 7–14 days after exposure and include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose (coryza)
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• White spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
• A red rash that starts on the face and spreads downward

How serious is measles?

Measles can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Complications include pneumonia, ear infections, brain swelling (encephalitis), and in rare cases even death.

How can I protect myself and my family from measles?

The best way to prevent measles is by getting the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine:

• Children should get the first dose at 12–15 months and a second dose at 4–6 years.
• Adults born in 1957 or later should have two doses at least 28 days apart
• Adults born before 1957 are considered immune

I’m not sure if I had the measles vaccine. What should I do?

You should check your vaccination records and talk to your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP) to see if you have been vaccinated. Almost everyone who went to school in the U.S. has been vaccinated unless you or your parents declined the vaccine. 

Is it safe to get the MMR vaccine?

Yes, the MMR vaccine is very safe and highly effective. Side effects are usually mild, such as a sore arm or mild fever. Serious side effects are extremely rare.

Who should NOT get the MMR vaccine?

• Pregnant women (should wait until after delivery)
• People with severe immune system problems
• Those with severe allergic reactions to a previous dose or vaccine component

How effective is the MMR vaccine?

• One dose is about 93% effective at preventing measles.
• Two doses are about 97% effective at preventing measles for life.

What should I do if I was exposed to someone with measles?

• If you feel you were exposed to measles, call your doctor or APP to determine the next best steps. A telemedicine visit may be ideal if it is covered by your insurance.
• If you are vaccinated or were born before 1957, you are considered immune and do not need to take action.
• If you are unvaccinated, getting the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure can help prevent illness.
• High-risk individuals (pregnant women, infants under 12 months, immunocompromised patients) should contact their doctor or APP about getting tested and possibly receiving immune globulin (IG), which may help prevent severe illness.

What should I do if I develop measles symptoms?

• If you have measles, stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the virus.
• Call your doctor or APP before visiting the practice for any care to avoid exposing others. If you are a Village Medical™ patient, you can also schedule a virtual visit to help prevent the spread of the virus.
• Rest, drink fluids and manage your fever with medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol).
• Watch for severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or dehydration, which require immediate medical attention.

How long does measles last?

The illness usually lasts 7–10 days, with the rash appearing around day 3–5 and lasting about a week.

Is there a treatment for measles?

• There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Care focuses on rest, hydration, fever control, and monitoring for complications.
• Vitamin A supplements may be recommended for young children to reduce the severity of illness. Your pediatrician or specialist can help guide the decision.

How long is a person with measles contagious?

Most patients can spread the virus from 4 days before to 4 days after rash onset. People with weakened immune systems who have the virus may be contagious for longer periods.

Can I still get measles if I am vaccinated?

It is very rare to get measles after full vaccination. However, no vaccine is 100% effective, and a small percentage of vaccinated individuals might still get a milder case of measles.

Where can I get the measles vaccine?

You can get the MMR vaccine at:

• Your doctor’s office
• Pharmacies
• Local health departments

What should I do if I am traveling?

• Check if measles is a concern at your destination.
• Infants 6–11 months old can get one early dose of MMR before traveling but will still need two routine doses later.
• Make sure you are fully vaccinated before international travel.

Measles spreads easily, but it can be prevented with vaccines. To help keep you and your loved ones healthy and safe from the measles, it is important to stay informed and make sure you and your loved ones are current on your shots.

*An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.