What To Know About Measles + Prevention Strategies

As we continue to see measles cases pop up across the country, we're reminded how dangerous and deadly the virus can be.

Despite the availability of an effective vaccine, measles accounts for about 100,000 deaths per year globally. Before vaccination programs for the virus were established, measles accounted for more than annual 2.5 million deaths globally, according to the National Library of Medicine.

We've gathered some details you should know about measles and discuss ways you and your loved one can prevent catching the disease.

Causes and Symptoms of Measles

The measles virus is spread through inhaled droplets of bodily fluids from an infected person. These droplets can be dispersed when an infected person sneezes, coughs or even talks.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that the measles virus can live in the air for up to two hours. In fact, the measles is so highly contagious that the CDC says that if you are infected with the virus, 90% of the people close to you who are not immune will become infected.

Symptoms of measles normally appear a week to two weeks after infection, beginning with:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes

A few days after this, you'll likely experience Koplik spots, which are small white spots inside your mouth. Then a measles rash will likely appear, usually beginning on the head and working down along the neck to the rest of the body.

The measles rash may include tiny, raised bumps within the rash area.

Complications from measles include ear infections and diarrhea, which occur in roughly 10% of individuals infected with measles.

Preventing Measles Infection

The most effective way to prevent catching or spreading measles is by receiving the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Children can begin receiving their MMR vaccine at 12-15 months and then receive their second dose from 4-6 years old.

The MMR vaccine can also be given to adults who haven't received the measles vaccine as well as those who have already been exposed to the virus, which can help prevent later disease.

If you are considering receiving the measles vaccine, discuss with your primary care provider to learn more. It is recommended that everyone who is able, should receive the vaccine. We've also provided a list of the immunizations your child should receive throughout their development to keep them healthy.

You should also practice good hygiene, especially if you are not vaccinated. This includes frequent hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes.