Understanding measles: What you need to know

[4 MIN READ] 

In this article:

• Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can stay in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.

• Measles is highly contagious and can spread quickly in crowded places.

• Symptoms of measles symptoms usually show up 7-14 days after being exposed.

• The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. 

Understanding measles: What you need to know

Measles is making a comeback in some parts of the U.S. Whether you're a parent, pregnant person, or just want to stay healthy, having a good understanding of measles can help you protect yourself and your loved ones.

Who can get measles?

• Children: Measles spreads easily among kids, especially those who haven't been vaccinated. It can cause serious problems like pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death. Although the vaccine is not recommended for infants under 12 months of age, they remain at higher risk. Once babies are eligible to get vaccinated, it’s important to begin their vaccine series to keep them safe and healthy.
• Adults: Adults can get measles too. Those born before 1957 are usually immune because they were likely exposed as kids. But adults born after 1957 who haven't been vaccinated or had measles are at risk. This is especially true for adults traveling internationally or an area where there is a known outbreak occurring, health care workers and those in crowded places.
• Pregnant people: Measles can be very dangerous for pregnant people and their babies. It can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, early birth and low birth weight. It is recommended that people make sure they are immune before getting pregnant since the vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy. 

How does measles spread?

“Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes,” says Tracy Persic, RN, BSN, CIC, manager of infection prevention at Providence. “The virus can stay in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. Because it's so contagious, it can spread quickly in crowded places.”

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles is highly contagious. If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected.

Signs and symptoms

Measles symptoms usually show up 7-14 days after being exposed, but may take up to 21 days. A person with measles is contagious for four days before and four days after onset of rash and possibly longer if immunocompromised. Look for:

• High fever (often over 104°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Tiny white spots inside the mouth
• A red, blotchy rash that starts at the hairline and spreads down the body 

When to see a doctor

If you or your child have symptoms of measles, especially after traveling or being around someone with measles, see your primary care doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and stop the virus from spreading. 

To avoid exposing others to measles, it is best to call ahead and inform your doctor’s office before visiting in person.

Protection and vaccination

The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella. Kids should get the first dose at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years. Adults may need the vaccine too, especially if they:

• Have never been vaccinated
• Have no proof of immunity
• Are health care workers
• Plan to travel internationally 

Some adults might need a booster shot, especially if they got an older version of the vaccine or aren't sure about their vaccination status. Talk to your doctor to see if you need a booster.

What to do if you've been exposed to measles

If you have been around someone confirmed to have measles and you are not sure if you are immune, your medical team can suggest the best course of action for you to prevent or lessen the effects of the illness. They may recommend you receive a MMR vaccine within 72 hours (3 days) of being exposed to measles or immune globulin (IG) within 6 days of being exposed. 

Separating the myths from the facts

Myth: Measles is a harmless childhood disease. 
Fact: Measles can cause serious problems like pneumonia, brain swelling and death. It's not something to take lightly.

Myth: Natural immunity is better than vaccine immunity. 
Fact: Natural immunity can come with severe illness and complications. Vaccination is a safe way to get immunity without the risks.

Myth: The MMR vaccine causes “shedding” and spreads measles.
Fact: Research shows MMR, a live vaccine, does not cause shedding. The real risk is unvaccinated individuals catching and spreading the disease, especially to those with weakened immune systems.

Myth: The MMR vaccine causes autism. 
Fact: Research shows no link between the MMR vaccine and autism. This myth comes from a repeatedly disproven study.

Myth: All adults should get an additional MMR booster (measles vaccine).
Fact: Most adults do not need a booster shot of the MMR vaccine. If you have had two doses of the MMR vaccine as a child, you are usually protected for life. However, some adults might need a booster shot if they are at higher risk, such as traveling to a country where measles is common or an area where there is a known outbreak, if they work in a health care setting, or if they are in contact with people who have weakened immune systems.

Treatment

There's no specific cure for measles but relief can be provided for some symptoms and may prevent complications. This includes rest, preventing dehydration, topical anti-itch products and keeping fever down using fever-reducing medication. Vitamin A supplementation should only be given under the guidance of a health professional. 

Stay informed and protected

“Measles continues to pose a threat today, with active outbreaks occurring in certain areas,” says Persic. “It's important to stay informed, get vaccinated and know what symptoms to look for. But most importantly, talk to your doctor if you think you’ve been exposed. By staying alert and informed, you can help protect yourself and your community.”

For more information, check reliable sources like the CDC and talk to your health care provider. Your proactive approach can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe. 

Find a doctor

If you are looking for a Providence doctor, you can search for one who’s right for you in our provider directory.

Through Providence ExpressCare Virtual, you can access a full range of health care services from the comfort of your own home. For same day care, check out Providence ExpressCare locations. 

Download the Providence app

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Related resources

Should you be concerned about recent outbreaks and viruses? 

Stay up to date on immunizations with the Providence app 

Learn common myths about vaccines and which ones you need

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional’s instructions.