Measles: What You Need to Know

What is measles, and why are we concerned about the illness and its spread?

Why are we talking about measles?

Recently, the CDC and several states have reported measles cases, with many news stories focusing on the outbreak in Texas. Let's consider what you need to know about measles and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.

What is measles, and how is it dangerous?

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the measles virus. It typically causes a cough, red eyes, high fever, and rash. However, measles can also lead to more severe health problems, including pneumonia, encephalitis, brain damage, and pregnancy complications. Here are some additional facts currently associated with measles:

• Complications of measles can occur in anyone, including healthy children and adults.
• Since January 2025, about 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the U.S. will require hospitalization from measles. In 2024, that rate was even higher—about 40% of people with measles were hospitalized.
• Measles can be deadly. In 2023 alone, an estimated 107,500 people globally died from measles. Most of these individuals were unvaccinated, including under-vaccinated children.

How does the measles virus spread?

Measles is among the most contagious infectious diseases. Here is how the virus spreads:

• Measles is transmitted via respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
• The infected droplets can remain in the air and potentially infect others for up to two hours.
• Infected droplets can also land on surfaces and remain infectious for up to two hours.
• You can become infected by breathing contaminated air or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Who is at greatest risk for contracting measles?

Anyone who is not fully immunized with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, or has not previously contracted measles is more susceptible to measles infection.

At what age should my child get the MMR vaccine?

In the U.S., the first dose of the MMR vaccine is recommended at 12–15 months of age. The second dose is recommended at 4–6 years old, before children enter kindergarten.

Should adults get the MMR vaccine?

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that persons who do not have a record of MMR vaccination or presumptive evidence of immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella should get vaccinated.

One dose of MMR vaccine, or other presumptive evidence of immunity, is sufficient for most adults. Individuals with additional questions concerning their health or immunity against measles should speak with their health care provider.

If the vaccine is so effective, why do people keep getting sick from measles?

Most of the cases reported in the current outbreak are unvaccinated individuals. While the vaccine does not provide a 100% guarantee of immunity, those who have received two doses of the vaccine are most protected.

For a variety of reasons, not everyone is vaccinated. Since measles is so contagious, at least 95% of a community needs to be vaccinated or have immunity from a previous illness to be protected.

What else can I do to reduce my risk of contracting measles?

The best protection against measles is to know your immunity status – confirm whether you have had the illness or if you’ve received the appropriate number of vaccines. Additionally, the following actions support prevention:

1. Wash your hands frequently, especially after being in public places.
2. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve.
3. Avoid sharing drinks, utensils, or other personal items.
4. Disinfect common surfaces frequently touched, like doorknobs and counters.
5. Avoid sick individuals whenever possible.
6. Stay home when sick, especially if you suspect measles or any contagious illness, to prevent spreading it.

Where can I get a measles shot?

You can get measles vaccinations through your healthcare provider. Your local health department may also offer MMR vaccines. For more information or to obtain an MMR or other vaccines, please contact your healthcare provider or local health department. Moultrie County area residents in Illinois can contact the Moultrie County Health Department.