Measles: what you need to know
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the measles virus. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after infection and can be especially dangerous for babies and young children. With recent concerns over outbreaks, it’s important to understand how measles spread, its symptoms, and how to protect yourself and your community.
How does measles spread?
Measles spread through direct contact with infected individuals and through airborne transmission from coughing and sneezing. The virus can survive in the air or on contaminated surfaces for up to 2 hours, making it one of the most contagious diseases.
Symptoms of measles
Common symptoms include:
Rash
Cough
Runny nose
Watery, red eyes
High fever (105°F)
Tiny white spots in the mouth (Koplik spots)
Preventing measles
The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is both safe and effective.
One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective at preventing measles
Two doses increase effectiveness to 97%
If you are unvaccinated, talk to your doctor about getting the MMR vaccine to protect yourself and those around you.
For more information, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.
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Fact sheet by the Middlesex-Essex Public Health Collaborative.
