Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that causes febrile rash illness. Measles has been eliminated (no sustained circulation) in the United States for decades. However, there can still be measles cases, as it is easily imported by unvaccinated travelers and can spread in under-immunized communities.

What are the signs or symptoms of measles?

Measles symptoms appear about 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus and typically include high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes. Measles rash appears about 3 to 5 days after the first symptoms. Three to five days after symptoms begin, a rash breaks out. It usually begins as flat red spots that appear on the face at the hairline and spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.

How is measles spread?

The measles virus spreads easily through contact with respiratory droplets through airborne spread. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infectious person leaves an area. Measles is highly contagious; up to 90% of susceptible people who have contact with someone with measles will develop measles.

How is Measles treated?

There is no specific treatment for measles. People with measles need bed rest, fluids, and control of fever. They may also need treatment for complications such as diarrhea, ear infection, or pneumonia.

How is measles prevented?

Vaccination is the best protection against measles. Measles can be prevented with measles (MMR; measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for children at 12 months of age. A second dose of the MMR vaccine is now required in Illinois for all children kindergarten through 12th grade. Anyone born after January 15, 1957, who has not had at least one dose of measles vaccine after 12 months of age or who has not had the measles should be immunized. All persons working in health care settings should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine unless they have other means to prove immunity. Anyone planning to travel internationally should make sure they are protected against measles and other dangerous diseases before they go abroad. Women should not get the vaccine if they are already pregnant or if they plan to get pregnant within three months after getting the vaccine. Acquired immunity after illness is permanent.

Talk to your child's healthcare provider to determine if a booster vaccination is appropriate for your child. If your child needs the MMR booster and you do not have insurance (or your insurance does not cover vaccinations), contact the McHenry County Department of Health at (815) 334-4500 to schedule an immunization clinic appointment. MMR vaccinations are also available at many local pharmacy clinics.

In addition, frequent hand washing and respiratory hygiene (e.g. covering your cough, coughing into tissues, disposing of tissues promptly) are important practices that help to limit the spread of infection.

If you notice any of the measles symptoms described above, contact your health provider. Should you have any questions, please contact the McHenry County Department of Health's Communicable Disease Program at (815) 334-4500.

Additional Materials

Preventing Measles Before and After Travel (CDC)

Do You Think Your Child Has Measles? (CDC)

Measles: It Isn't Just a Little Rash (CDC)