Measles Virus 

Measles is a highly contagious illness caused by a virus that spreads through the air and direct contact with an infected person's respiratory droplets. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours even after an infected person has left the room. 

Symptoms 

Measles Symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and can include:

• High fever (sometimes over 104 °F)
• Cough 
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Rash (flat red spots that may have raised bumps)
• Koplik spots (tiny white or blueish-white spots inside of the mouth)
• Nasal congestion

If you think you might have measles or were exposed to someone who does, stay home and avoid contact with others. Call your healthcare provider, urgent care, or emergency room before going in. This helps prevent the virus from spreading to others. DO NOT arrive at a healthcare facility without giving advance notice.

Prevention

The best way to protect yourself is with the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella). It offers long lasting protections and is highly effective. Learn more about the MMR vaccine, here. 

More Information

For more detailed information about the measles virus, please click the link below.

Measles Virus Information