Six Things You Need to Know About Measles
Six Things You Need to Know About Measles
Measles has resurfaced in several communities across the United States, including Utah, raising concern among many families. Hilary Hewes, MD an emergency pediatrician at University of Utah Health, explains key points everyone should understand to protect themselves and prevent further spread.
1. Measles is extremely contagious
Measles spreads very easily—more than most common respiratory viruses. A person infected with measles can enter a room, and someone unvaccinated can still become infected up to two hours later, even if they were never in the room at the same time.
This is why outbreaks can grow quickly in communities where many people are unvaccinated.
2. Early symptoms can look like a cold
Measles usually begins like many other viral infections, with:
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Red or watery eyes
After three or four days, a distinctive rash appears. It typically starts at the scalp and spreads down the rest of the body. If this rash develops, call your health care provider before seeking care in person.
3. The MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and offers lifelong protection
Hewes emphasizes that the MMR vaccine:
- Has decades of strong scientific evidence behind it
- Does not cause serious side effects
- Protects about 97% of people after two doses
- Provides long‑lasting—and in most cases, lifelong—protection
Issues arise when a community’s vaccination rate drops below 94%–95%. At that point, herd immunity is weakened, allowing the virus to return and spread.
4. If you don’t know your vaccination history, it’s safe to get vaccinated
Some people may not have access to medical records or may not remember whether they received the measles vaccine. Hewes explains that:
- If you’re unsure whether you were vaccinated, it is safe to get the vaccine again.
- Receiving an extra dose will not harm you.
- Your doctor can help look for any existing records, but if none are found, getting vaccinated is the safest choice.
5. Who is at higher risk for complications from measles?
According to Hewes, certain groups may face more serious complications if they become infected:
- Babies and very young children
- Older adults
- Pregnant people
- People with weakened immune systems, including those receiving certain medical treatments
- Unvaccinated individuals, who are at the highest risk during an outbreak
6. What should you do if you think you or your child has measles?
If fever and respiratory symptoms appear and are followed by a rash that starts on the hairline, the recommended steps are:
- Call your doctor or local health department first. This helps prevent exposing others in a waiting room and allows you to receive instructions tailored to your situation.
- Watch for warning signs, such as difficulty breathing, dehydration, or a child not behaving normally.
- Avoid contact with others, since measles is highly contagious. It is recommended to avoid contact for about 21 days.
If you are unvaccinated and were exposed to someone with measles, calling your doctor or the health department is especially important so you can learn how to protect yourself as quickly as possible.
Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, ear infections, brain inflammation, and even death. Prevention through vaccination remains the best defense.
Measles is highly contagious and can be dangerous, but it is also completely preventable with a safe and effective vaccine. Staying informed is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
