Measles Prevention

Measles spreads very easily through the air when a person sick with measles breathes, coughs, or sneezes.The virus can stay in the air and make you sick for up to 2 hours after someone with measles has left the room.

Common symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat, and red, watery eyes. These symptoms start anywhere between 7-21 days after being exposed to someone with measles. After 3–7 days of these symptoms, a red rash develops that usually begins on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body. A person with measles can spread the disease 4 days before the rash appears until 4 days after.

One in five measles patients will require hospitalization. Some people, especially very young children who have not yet been vaccinated, are at high risk for serious complications. These may include lung infection (pneumonia), brain inflammation (encephalitis), deafness, and even death.

The best way to prevent measles is by getting vaccinated!

You can prevent measles with a vaccine that provides protection against 3 diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). The MMR vaccine is proven to be very safe and effective.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) recommends that children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine — the first at 12 to 15months of age and the second between 4 and 6 years of age. The second dose may be given earlier, if needed, if it is administered at least 28 days after the first dose. One MMR dose is 93% effective against measles, and two doses are 97% effective against measles. Most children become eligible for their second MMR dose upon their fourth birthday and are encouraged to receive it at that time. Please check with your healthcare provider or school health nurse for guidance.

Children, teenagers and adults who have not been vaccinated and have no documented evidence of ever having measles should also get the MMR, including before traveling outside the United States. Anyone who has received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine after 12 months of age, previously had measles or laboratory proof of immunity or infection, or was born before 1957, does not need to take any action, as they are considered protected.

• Contact your healthcare provider or school nurse.
• Come to one of Arlington County Public Health Division’s clinics. Visit Immunization Clinic –Official Website of Arlington County Virginia Government for more information about times, locations, and costs.

• Keep your child at home, or stay at home yourself, if you are sick.
• Contact your healthcare provider before going in for medical care. Do not just “walk in” to the office.
• When speaking with the provider, let them know that you suspect measles so they can protect staff and other patients when you come into their office or clinic.
• Avoid public areas and public transportation.
• Notify the school and school clinic of your/your child’s illness