Measles: What You Need to Know:
Measles is a highly contagious, serious airborne disease caused by a virus that can lead to severe complications and even death. The symptoms of measles are a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Symptoms appear 7-14 days after contact with the virus. It can be spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Potential complications are ear infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis. 2-3 days after symptoms begin, tiny white spots may appear inside the mouth. 3-5 days after symptoms begin, a rash of flat red spots appear on the face and can spread all over the body. Measles can be prevented with the MMR vaccine, protecting you from measles, mumps, and rubella. Higher-risk individuals are infants and young children, pregnant women, individuals with weakened immune systems, and travelers to areas with ongoing outbreaks. Practice good hygiene by frequently washing your hands and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze. If you are sick, stay home to avoid spreading the virus. Be aware of potential exposure and seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms.
Resources:
- Cases & Outbreaks (updated biweekly): https://www.cdc.gov/measles/cases-outbreaks.html
- Measles Signs & Symptoms: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/symptoms/signs-symptoms.html
- Complications of Measles: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/symptoms/complications.html
- For Healthcare Providers: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/
- Global Measles Outbreaks: https://www.cdc.gov/globalhealth/measles/data/global-measles-outbreaks.html
· Support for vaccination: Progress Toward Measles Elimination — Worldwide, 2000–2022: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7246a3.htm?s_cid=mm7246a3_w