Measles

Measles is Back – Are You Protected?

Cases and outbreaks are on the rise! Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause severe complications. The best protection? Vaccination. Read on to find out who needs a vaccine and what to do if you have symptoms.

Measles Symptoms – Know the Signs

Measles often starts like a common cold but worsens quickly. Symptoms appear 7–14 days after exposure and include:

  • High fever: Can exceed 104°F
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • Rash: Begins 3–5 days after symptoms start

If you or someone you know has symptoms, call your healthcare provider and avoid public spaces. Stay informed and stay safe!

What To Do If You Have Symptoms

If you suspect you have measles:

  • Call your healthcare provider right away.
  • Isolate yourself from other household members as much as possible.
  • Avoid public spaces.
  • Wear a mask.

Important: Measles can stay in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves the room.

Who Needs a Measles Vaccine?

Do you need an MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine? Check below! 

Children:

  • First dose: Between 12 and 15 months of age.
  • Second dose: Between 4 and 6 years of age.
  • The routine schedule may change if traveling or during outbreaks. Check with your healthcare provider.

Adults:

You have presumptive evidence of immunity if you:

  • Were born before 1957, OR
  • Have written proof of MMR vaccination, OR
  • Have a blood test confirming measles immunity OR
  • Had a laboratory-confirmed measles infection.

If you don’t meet any of the above conditions, you should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.

  • Not sure about your immunity? Your healthcare provider can order a blood test.
  • If you were vaccinated before 1968 with an inactivated (killed) measles vaccine or are unsure of the type you received, you should be revaccinated with at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.

Some adults in high-risk groups may need two doses of MMR vaccine, 28 days apart, including:

  • Healthcare workers
  • International travelers
  • College students

Who Should NOT Receive the MMR Vaccine?

While the MMR vaccine is safe for most people, some should NOT receive it:

  • Pregnant individuals
  • People with severe immune system conditions
  • Individuals with life-threatening allergies to vaccine ingredients (e.g., anaphylaxis)

If you are unsure, talk to your doctor before getting vaccinated.

Have questions or need help finding an MMR vaccine? Call us at 860-448-4882.

For more information, visit the CDC Measles page