Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger for up to two hours after the person leaves the area.

Measles is not just a rash. It can cause serious illness, especially in babies and young children.

• Measles Factsheet - English
• Measles Factsheet - Spanish 

Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear 7–14 days after exposure:

• High fever (often >104°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Rash beginning 3–5 days after symptoms start, spreading from face to body

How Serious Can It Be?

• About 1 in 4 people with measles will be hospitalized.
• 1 in 1,000 may develop brain swelling (encephalitis), which can cause permanent damage.
• 1 or 2 in 1,000 may die, even with good medical care.

Prevention 

• Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles.
• The vaccine is safe and provides lifelong protection for most people.
• Check your vaccination record. Talk to your doctor if you’re unsure.
• Check You Immunity (Quiz Tool): You are protected if you were born before 1957, are vaccinated or have lab proof of immunity. 

Protect yourself and your family by being up-to-date with the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine. The Department of Public Health offers the MMR vaccine on a walk-in basis Monday - Friday, 8 - 11:30 a.m. and 1 - 4 p.m. Doses are available for uninsured or underinsured individuals who have never been vaccinated.

For more information, call the Immunization Clinic at (828) 694-6015.