Measles Information
MEASLES: What Parents Need to Know
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the measles virus. It can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and other people at higher risk. Vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best protection against measles.
CAUSE
Measles is caused by the measles virus. The infection can affect people of any age.
TRANSMISSION
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person has left the area. A person with measles can spread the virus before the typical rash appears.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms usually begin 7–14 days after exposure. Common symptoms include:
- High fever, which may rise above 104°F
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Small white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
- A red, blotchy rash that usually begins on the face and spreads downward to the rest of the body
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
Call your child’s healthcare provider if you think your child has been exposed to measles or develops symptoms. Call the healthcare facility before arriving so staff can take steps to prevent exposing others.
Seek prompt medical care if your child has:
- Trouble breathing
- A very high or persistent fever
- Unusual sleepiness, weakness, or confusion
- Signs of dehydration, such as very little urine, a dry mouth, or no tears when crying
- Any symptoms that are severe or rapidly worsening
PROTECTION STARTS WITH VACCINATION: The MMR vaccine is the best way to protect against measles. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles. Parents should contact their child’s healthcare provider with questions about vaccination or possible exposure.
CDC Reference
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2026). Measles. https://www.cdc.gov/measles/
Additional CDC parent resource: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2026). Common questions about protecting children from measles. https://www.cdc.gov/measles/downloads/MMR-conversation-guide.pdf