Measles is a highly contagious vaccine-preventable disease. In the United States, 2 doses of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are recommended for all children aged 12–15 months and 4–6 years. If you suspect that you or your child may have measles, please call testing facilities prior to arrival.
What is measles?
Measles is a very contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear within 7-14 days after contact with the virus and may include high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes. A measles rash with tiny red dots appears 3-5 days after the first symptoms. It starts at the head and spreads to the rest of the body. Learn more about the signs and symptoms here.
Measles can be serious. Children younger than 5 years of age and adults older than 20 years of age are more likely to suffer from complications. Common complications are ear infections and diarrhea. Serious complications include pneumonia and encephalitis. Learn more about possible complications here.
Who is at risk?
Populations at risk include:
- Children younger than 5 years of age
- Adults older than 20 years of age
- People who are pregnant
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
- Travelers to areas with ongoing outbreaks
Prevention
Vaccinations
The MMR vaccine protects against three diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. The MMR vaccine is safe and effective with hundreds of millions of doses given.
Two doses of the vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective. CDC recommends children get two doses of MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. Teens and adults should also be up to date on their MMR vaccination. Additionally, people 6 months of age and older who will be traveling internationally should be protected against measles.
Vaccinations are safe, effective and protect both yourself and others. We encourage residents of Hamilton County to take preventative measures and seek medical attention if needed. Hamilton County Public Health does not provide measles testing, treatment, or MMR vaccines at this time. We encourage individuals to seek care and guidance from their healthcare provider. MMR vaccines are widely accessible at primary care offices, pediatricians, and clinics. Learn more about the MMR vaccine here.
Other Measures
- Practice good hygiene (frequent handwashing, covering coughs/sneezes)
- Stay home if sick to avoid spreading the virus
- Be aware of potential exposure and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms
