Measles is spreading across the country: Here's what you need to know

With measles on the move across the country, now is the time to arm yourself with the information necessary to protect yourself and your loved ones and help minimize spread. It all starts with an understanding of just how contagious the disease is. Up to nine out of 10 people near an infected person will contract measles if not protected. 
 

Symptoms

Measles typically begins with:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye) 

These symptoms last two to four days prior to the development of a rash, which typically begins as flat red spots that appear on the face, along the hairline. The rash eventually spreads downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet.

How measles spreads and the seriousness of transmission

Measles is transmitted through direct contact with infectious droplets or through airborne exposure – generally via coughing or sneezing. Infected people are contagious four days before through four days after rash onset.
 

_{Courtesy: Matthew Donahue, MD, Iowa Department of Health and Human Services} 

Measles can cause serious health complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation or death. Those at high risk for such complications include:

• Children younger than 5
• Adults older than 20
• Pregnant women
• Those with compromised immune systems
   

Prevention

You can protect yourself and your family through vaccination. The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective.

There are some people who may not be able to receive the MMR vaccine, including women who are or may soon be pregnant and individuals with weakened immune systems. If you’re concerned about receiving the MMR vaccine, or you are unsure whether you’ve been vaccinated and can’t find documentation, reach out to your health care provider for guidance.