Measles is a dangerous and highly contagious disease. It primarily spreads in the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes near others.  The virus can stay in the air and remain infectious on surfaces for up to two hours, which makes it extremely easy to spread, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas. Measles can lead to serious health complications and death, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Early symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward.

If you are concerned you have contracted the measles, call your doctor and do not go into a clinic.

View Signs and Symptoms

if you are concerned you have measles call your doctor. Do not walk into a clinic without calling them first and letting them know you think you might have measles or have been exposed to measles.

Call our volunteer-run measles helplines.

The MMR vaccine saves lives. It is the best way to protect yourself and your family from this dangerous disease. In just two weeks after getting the vaccine, you are 97% protected from the measles. Children over 1 year old can get the vaccine. if you’re concerned that you were exposed to measles and are unvaccinated you have to get the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure for it to help.