Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases, making early recognition and prompt isolation critical to preventing its spread. Vaccination, in consultation with your health care provider, remains the most effective way to protect patients, health care workers and the broader community from infection and serious complications.

If you suspect you might have symptoms of measles or have been exposed, do not abruptly visit your health care provider or local health care facility without contacting them ahead of time for guidance to avoid spreading it to others. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, call 911 and tell the dispatcher you have symptoms and/or have been exposed to the disease.

How does measles spread?

Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. The virus can remain floating in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a room. A person with measles is contagious from four days before the rash appears through four days after the rash begins.

What are the symptoms of measles?

Symptoms usually appear up to 21 days after exposure and may include:

• High fever, often greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius)
• Rash
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)

Two to three days later, tiny white spots may appear inside the mouth. A red rash usually develops three to five days after the fever begins, starting on the face and spreading downward across the body.

How serious is measles?

Public health experts estimate that about 90% of people who are not immune will become infected after exposure.

Complications are more common among children younger than 5, adults older than 20, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems. Possible complications include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, brain swelling and death.

Is measles dangerous?

Yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says about one in five unvaccinated people with measles in the United States is hospitalized. One to three of every 1,000 children who contract measles may die from complications.

What should I do if I think I was exposed to measles?

• Call your health care provider for guidance first and do not abruptly show up at a health care facility; call 911 if you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms like shortness of breath, persistent chest pain, bluish lips or face, confusion, seizures, severe or worsening headache with stiff neck, inability to keep fluids down or very little or no urine
• Watch for symptoms for 21 days after exposure
• Avoid public places if symptoms develop
• Follow guidance from your local health department

This allows providers to take steps to reduce the risk of further spread.

What should I do if someone in my home has measles symptoms?

• Call ahead before seeking medical care
• Keep the person isolated in a separate room at home
• Limit contact with others, especially infants, pregnant women and people who are unvaccinated
• Follow instructions from public health officials

How can I protect myself and my family?

Vaccination, the best protection against measles, is a personal choice best made in consultation with your physician. The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective.

• First dose: 12 to 15 months of age
• Second dose: 4 to 6 years of age
• Two doses provide about 97% protection
• Please note: Adults who are not fully vaccinated against measles can still receive the MMR vaccine. Please check with your physician to learn more.

Adults should check their vaccination status, especially if traveling or after known exposure.

Is treatment available for measles?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Care focuses on managing symptoms, including:

• Fluids
• Fever control
• Monitoring for complications
• Vitamin A may be recommended for children in certain cases

Can vaccinated people still get measles?

Yes, but it is uncommon. When measles occurs in vaccinated individuals, the illness is usually milder and complications are less likely.