Common Questions About Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects children but can pose serious health risks to people of all ages. Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but it is beginning to spread in communities that have low vaccination rates. PIH Health Pediatrician Ferdinand Shamiyeh MD, helps answer some questions you might have about the measles virus.
Why is measles in the news?
Media coverage has increased in the last several months due to measles outbreaks in multiple states, leading to a 180% increase in infections over the last 12-month period ending April 2025. The highly infectious illness infects 90% of unprotected people who are exposed.
Anyone who is not immune can become infected with the measles virus. If you have not been vaccinated or you haven’t had the actual virus, you are likely to get the virus after exposure.
How does the measles virus spread?
The measles virus is airborne so it spreads through exhaled droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or even breathes, and these droplets can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. The virus is so contagious that if one person in a room has the virus, up to 9 out of 10 unprotected people will become infected. The measles virus is one of the most contagious human viruses known.
What are measles symptoms?
Symptoms of measles usually appear 7-14 days after exposure to the virus, and they normally begin with:
- A very high fever which may spike to over 104
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Conjunctivitis (red and watery eyes)
- 2-3 days after symptoms begin, tiny white spots may appear inside the mouth
- The measles rash appears 3-5 days after the first symptoms
What are the dangers of having measles?
It is important to call your healthcare provider immediately if you or your child have been exposed to the measles virus. Some people may suffer from severe complications, such as pneumonia (infection of the lungs), hearing loss, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), or even death. Measles isn’t just a little rash. It can be dangerous.
What should I do if I’m not sure I had a measles vaccine?
If you aren’t sure of your measles vaccination status, an MMR booster shot is safe and effective, even if you’ve already been immunized. You could also ask your doctor about a titer test, which is a blood test that measures the measles antibodies in your blood to determine if you have immunity.
What should I do if my child has measles symptoms?
Contact your healthcare provider and ask for a virtual video appointment. Some doctors may want you to bring the child in to be seen in person or provide other healthcare advice.
