Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world, but vaccination makes it highly preventable. For parents and caregivers, understanding how measles spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and when to contact your child’s healthcare provider can help protect both your family and your community.
We spoke with Dr. Melissa Deimling of Community Care Pediatrics – Latham to answer some common questions about measles and the MMR vaccine.
How Does Measles Spread?
Measles spreads easily from person to person through airborne respiratory droplets, such as those produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
It is extremely contagious. According to Dr. Deimling, about 9 out of 10 people who are exposed to measles will become infected if they are not vaccinated or do not have immunity.
The measles virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area. The virus can also travel on air currents, meaning someone can be exposed even without direct contact with the sick person.
Because measles spreads so easily, vaccination remains an important tool for preventing outbreaks and protecting people who may be more vulnerable to serious illness.
What Are the Symptoms of Measles?
The first symptoms of measles can appear approximately 8 to 12 days after exposure.
Children with measles often look and feel very sick. Common symptoms include:
- High fever
- Rash
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
The measles rash typically appears three to five days after the initial symptoms begin. It usually starts on the head and then spreads downward to the rest of the body.
Some children may also develop small spots inside the mouth, particularly along the inside of the cheeks.
If your child develops symptoms consistent with measles, especially after a known exposure, contact your pediatrician right away. Because measles is highly contagious, call your healthcare provider before bringing your child into the office so the practice can take appropriate precautions to protect other patients and staff.
When Should Children Receive the MMR Vaccine?
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
For children who are following the routine vaccination schedule, Dr. Deimling recommends MMR vaccination at:
- 12 months of age
- 4 years of age
Children who receive both recommended doses are considered immune.
In certain circumstances, children may need to receive an additional dose or receive a dose earlier than the routine schedule. This can depend on factors such as local measles outbreaks, travel plans, or certain medical conditions.
Does My Child Need an Additional MMR Dose?
Families should talk with their child’s healthcare provider about their vaccination status if they are traveling to an area experiencing a measles outbreak, including areas within the United States or internationally.
For example, children who are traveling to outbreak areas may be able to receive an additional MMR dose between 6 and 12 months of age. This early dose does not replace the routine doses given at 12 months and 4 years.
In some circumstances, the second routine dose may also be given earlier than age 4.
Children with certain medical conditions, including some conditions that affect the immune system, may have different vaccination considerations. Your child’s healthcare provider can help determine what is appropriate based on their individual circumstances.
Adults should also check their vaccination history. Adults who have not received two doses of MMR should talk with their healthcare provider about whether they need vaccination.
How Effective Is the MMR Vaccine?
The MMR vaccine has been used for decades and has been extensively studied. Receiving the recommended two-dose series provides strong protection against measles.
Vaccination not only protects your child from measles and its potential complications but also reduces the spread of the virus in the community. This is particularly important for people who are unable to receive certain vaccines or who may be at greater risk for serious illness.
As Dr. Deimling emphasizes, measles is highly contagious, potentially life-threatening, and preventable through vaccination.
What Should I Do If My Child Has Been Exposed to Measles?
If you believe your child has been exposed to someone with measles, call your pediatrician right away.
Do not wait for symptoms to appear before reaching out. Your child’s vaccination history will help determine what steps may be appropriate following an exposure.
Measles symptoms typically begin about 8 to 12 days after exposure, so knowing when the exposure occurred and whether your child has received the recommended MMR doses can help your healthcare provider.
When calling your pediatrician’s office, let the staff know about the potential measles exposure and your child’s symptoms, if any. This allows the healthcare team to guide you while taking steps to help prevent potential exposure to others.
Protecting Your Child and Your Community
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent measles and help limit outbreaks.
Dr. Deimling also encourages parents to be thoughtful about the information they use when making decisions about vaccination. The MMR vaccine has been extensively studied, including research specifically examining a proposed connection between the vaccine and autism. The scientific evidence does not support a link between MMR vaccination and autism.
If you have questions or concerns about vaccines, talk with your child’s pediatrician. Your healthcare provider can help you understand the benefits, risks, and recommendations based on your child’s individual health history.
“Please do not let misinformation from unreliable sources affect your decisions to protect your child and the community as a whole,” Dr. Deimling says.
Have Questions About Your Child’s MMR Vaccination?
If you’re unsure whether your child is up to date on their MMR vaccination or planning travel to an area experiencing a measles outbreak, talk with your pediatrician.
Community Care Pediatrics – Latham is here to help families understand their children’s vaccination needs and make informed decisions about their health.
For additional information about measles, symptoms, vaccination, and prevention, visit:
American Academy of Pediatrics: Measles
American Academy of Pediatrics: How to Protect Your Children During a Measles Outbreak