What is measles?
Measles is a very contagious virus that can be very dangerous for those who are not vaccinated, especially babies and young children. If one person has measles, 9 out 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected.
Common signs and symptoms of measles are rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis). Measles can lead to further health complications. Talk to your doctor if these symptoms are present in you or your child.
Measles spreads in the air by an infected person coughing or sneezing. Measles remains in a room where a contagious person has been for up to 2 hours after the person has left the room.
How can I protect against measles?
Protect yourself and loved ones by getting the MMR vaccine. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella, and it is safe and effective. Two doses of the vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles. If you plan to travel outside the U.S., it is especially important to talk to your healthcare provider about the MMR vaccine.
Children typically get their MMR vaccines at 12-15 months and 4-6 years old. If you haven’t received both doses of the MMR vaccine, talk to your healthcare provider.
Learn more about measles:
Measles basics: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/about/
Vaccination: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/vaccines/
Symptoms and complications: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/
How measles spreads: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/causes/
Cases and outbreak info: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html