Measles is an infection that spreads very easily. Measles spreads through the air when an infected person breaths, coughs, or sneezes. It can survive in the air for up to two hours. Measles can be spread from four days before the rash appears until four days after the onset of the rash.
Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.
After a few days.
Most people fully recover from measles within two to three weeks. Some people can get very sick if they get measles. Measles can lead to ear infections, pneumonia, and in some rare instances brain swelling and even death. Pregnant individuals can have a miscarriage or give birth prematurely.
If you have measles:
There is no specific treatment for measles. There are things you can do to help ease the symptoms. Resting and drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, and good nutrition can help you while you recover. Since there is no treatment, prevention is very important. The MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent measles.
Public health identifies and notifies contacts of an infected person. If you are identified as a contact, watch for signs and symptoms of measles for 21 days. If you develop any symptoms, call your health care provider. Call ahead to let them know that you have symptoms, and inform them that you are a contact of someone with measles so that they can put measures in place to protect health care workers and other patients.
Yes. Having the MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent measles. The MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent measles.
Check your immunization records. If you are unsure if you are up to date with your MMR vaccine, call your health care provider.