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Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads easily through the air. A measles infection can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, adults older than 20, pregnant individuals and people with weakened immune systems. Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 thanks to widespread vaccination, but outbreaks still occur, particularly in communities with lower vaccination rates. The good news: Measles is almost entirely preventable with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Measles is caused by the measles virus. It’s one of the most contagious diseases known — up to 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people in close contact with someone with measles will become infected. The virus lives in the nose and throat mucus of an infected person and spreads through coughing and sneezing.
Before the measles vaccine became available in the 1960s, measles infected millions of people in the U.S. each year and caused hundreds of fatalities annually. The modern vaccine recommendations have dramatically reduced measles cases, but the disease hasn’t disappeared globally, so exposure is still possible, especially during travel or in areas with unvaccinated pockets of the population. Measles cases are now rising in some communities in Kentucky and across the U.S.
Measles symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure to the virus. The illness usually unfolds in stages:
Recovery: The rash and fever typically start to fade after about a week, with the rash fading in the same order it appeared — from the face downward.
Most people with measles are contagious from about four days before the rash appears until about four days after.
Measles spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. It also can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area. It can be caught by breathing contaminated air or touching a contaminated surface and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.
Because it’s so contagious, measles can spread quickly in places where people gather, such as schools, childcare centers and healthcare facilities. A person can spread the virus before they know they’re sick with measles.
Anyone who isn’t immune to measles, either through vaccination or prior infection, is at risk of getting sick and/or having severe complications from measles. Certain groups face a higher chance of severe illness or complications, including:
Most people recover from measles without lasting effects, but complications can be serious and are more common in children younger than five, adults over 20 and people who have a weakened immune system. Possible complications include:
A healthcare provider often can recognize measles by its distinctive rash and other symptoms, but lab tests — usually a swab from the nose or throat — confirm the diagnosis by detecting the virus. A blood test to look for antibodies to the measles virus is sometimes helpful.
There’s no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Care focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications while the body fights off the virus. This may include:
People with measles should stay home from work, school or daycare and away from public places until at least four days after the rash appears to avoid spreading the virus. People with measles should follow the advice of public health authorities about when it safe to be around others.
The MMR vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles. It’s a safe, highly effective vaccine that also protects against mumps and rubella.
Vaccine recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics:
Two doses of MMR vaccine provide about 97% protection against measles.
For most adults born in 1957 or later, one documented dose of MMR vaccine or other evidence of immunity, such as a positive blood test, is sufficient. Some adults need two documented doses of vaccine, including international travelers, healthcare personnel and students at colleges or universities. People who received an inactivated measles vaccine or a vaccine of unknown type before 1968 should ask a healthcare provider whether they need to be revaccinated.
If you are unsure of your vaccination history, check your immunization records, state vaccine registry or Norton MyChart. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether you need a dose of MMR vaccine or a blood test for immunity. Receiving another dose is safe if you are already immune. People who received two recommended doses at age 12 months or older do not need a measles booster.
People who are pregnant, have a severely weakened immune system or have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or vaccine component should speak with a healthcare provider about how to protect themselves from measles.
If you think you’ve been exposed to someone with measles, contact your healthcare provider right away. Call before going to a clinic or emergency department in person, so staff can take steps to prevent exposing others.
Most measles cases can be managed at home with a provider’s guidance, but certain symptoms need immediate medical attention. Seek emergency care if you or a loved one experiences:
Call ahead before arriving at an emergency department or urgent care center so staff can take precautions to prevent measles from spreading to other patients.
Vaccinations are available at your primary care provider’s office, Norton Prompt Care clinics, Norton Immediate Care Center locations and our Norton Healthcare Express Services drive-thru location with an appointment. Talk to your provider about which vaccines are right for you.