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5 important facts about measles

Get the truth about the disease that’s been making a worrisome comeback. 

Updated on September 10, 2024

young child with measles rash
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For years, people in the United States didn't have to think about measles very much. That's because a safe and effective vaccine to protect against this viral infection has been available for decades. But measles has come back in recent years as a potential threat. 

In 2000, the U.S. declared measles to be eliminated. But as of September 5, 2024, a total ofShow More

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Early symptoms are flu-like

Measles symptoms can first mimic those of a bad cold or a nasty flu. The signs come in stages, starting off with a high fever, runny nose, watery eyes, cough, and sore throat. Tiny white spots may also pop up inside the mouth within two to three days. Three to five days after symptoms first appear,Show More

father and child with fever video conferencing with provider
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It is very contagious

An infected person can pass the virus through the air, usually by coughing or sneezing. The virus can stay in the air or on contaminated surfaces for up to two hours. If you breathe that air or touch an affected surface and then touch your nose or mouth, you risk becoming infected, even long afterShow More

child with measels
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There is no specific treatment for measles

With plenty of rest and hydration, measles symptoms should subside within a week or two. Your healthcare provider (HCP) may suggest ways to ease symptoms, such as using a humidifier for a cough or taking ibuprofen for a fever. If your child is infected, keep them away from other children to avoidShow More

young Black man, sick in bed, drinking a glass of water
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Adults can get measles, too

While measles is most commonly known for affecting kids, unvaccinated adults or those with low immunity or a weakened immune system are susceptible, too. Complications for adults can be severe, especially for people over age 20, people with compromised immune systems, and pregnant people. InShow More

child getting a shot
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Measles can be prevented

Measles is a one-time disease. In other words, if you’ve already had it, you won’t contract it again. But for those people who haven’t previously had the infection, vaccination against measles is the best way to protect againt the infection. All children should receive two rounds of the measles,Show More

Slideshow sources open slideshow sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles (Rubeola): Measles Cases and Outbreaks. Page last reviewed October 3, 2022.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles (Rubeola): Measles History. Page last reviewed November 5, 2020.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles (Rubeola): Measles Elimination. Page last reviewed November 5, 2020.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles (Rubeola): Measles Signs & Symptoms. Page last reviewed November 5, 2020.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles (Rubeola): Transmission of Measles. Page last reviewed November 5, 2020.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles (Rubeola): Complications of Measles. Page last reviewed November 5, 2020.
World Health Organization. Measles. December 5, 2019.
Mayo Clinic. Measles. May 11, 2022.
KidsHealth.org. Measles. September 2019.
March of Dimes. Rubella and Pregnancy. Last reviewed August 2021.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles (Rubeola): Top 4 Things Parents Need to Know about Measles. Page last reviewed November 5, 2020.
NYC Health. Measles Frequently Asked Questions. Revised August 2019.

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