While measles was eradicated in the U.S. in 2000, recent reports of cases around the country and the world remind us about the importance of vaccination. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine provides the best protection against disease and serious illness. Most measles cases are a result of international travel, which is why it’s especially important to ensure you and your family are up to date on all vaccines prior to traveling to another country.
How Measles Spreads:
Measles is caused by a very contagious virus – one of the most contagious in the world. It spreads easily through the air when infected people breathe, talk, cough or sneeze. The virus can stay in the air for many hours, even after the infected person has left the area. Someone who is infected can spread the disease to other people before noticing any symptoms, especially in the four days before and after the rash develops.
Measles is a serious disease that could lead to hospitalization, long-term illness and death. Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus and typically include high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes. Measles rash appears 3 to 5 days after the first symptoms. Call your health care provider right away if you think you or your child have been exposed to measles or if you or your child develop symptoms suggestive of measles. Do not arrive at a health care facility without giving advance notice.
Vaccination Information:
MMR vaccines protect against measles, mumps and rubella—three potentially serious diseases. Vaccines have made these diseases much less common in the U.S., but outbreaks of each one can still occur. Most people who complete the entire vaccination series will be protected for life.
The MMR vaccine is safe, highly effective and cost-efficient. Two doses provide 97% protection against measles. One dose offers 93% protection. Unvaccinated individuals face a 90% chance of infection if exposed.
All 50 states require that children receive MMR vaccines to attend childcare and public school.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
- Young children should get two doses of MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age. Children can receive the second dose earlier than 4 years of age if at least 28 days have passed since the first dose.
- Infants at least 6 months old who are traveling internationally should receive one dose before their 1st birthday and at least two weeks before departing for international travel.
- All older children (K–12), college-age students and adults who are not up to date on their MMR vaccine.
With measles cases on the rise in the U.S., it’s important to check your vaccination status. Protect yourself and your community.
Visit the My Turn website or contact your health care provider to get up to date on your MMR vaccines.
