Montgomery County, PA

Measles is caused by the measles virus. It begins with a fever that lasts for a couple of days, followed by a cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (pink eye). The illness starts with a runny nose, watery eyes, cough, and high fever. After 2 or 3 days, tiny white spots appear in the mouth. After 2 more days, a raised, red rash starts on the face and spreads down the body and out to the arms and legs. The rash usually lasts 4 to 7 days. Symptoms start about 10 days after exposure and last from 1 to 2 weeks. After about five days, the rash fades in the same order it appeared.

 

It is spread by infected droplets during sneezing or coughing, contaminated objects, and direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected persons. The measles virus resides in the mucus in the nose and throat of infected people. When they sneeze or cough, droplets spray into the air and the droplets remain active and contagious on infected surfaces for up to two hours.

 

Measles is very rare in countries and regions of the world that are able to keep vaccination coverage high. In North and South America, Finland, and some other areas, endemic measles transmission is considered to have been interrupted through vaccination. There are still sporadic cases of measles in the United States because visitors from other countries or US citizens traveling abroad can become infected before or during travel and spread the infection to unvaccinated or unprotected persons.

 

Worldwide, there are estimated to be 10 million cases and 197,000 deaths each year. More than half of the deaths occur in India.

 

Who is at increased risk of becoming infected with measles?

The MMR vaccine prevents measles and two other viral diseases — mumps and rubella. These three vaccines are safe given together. Please check your vaccination status with your healthcare provider to ensure that you have protection.

 

Links to Resources:
CDC Measles Page
Traveler’s Health
PADOH website
Measles Fact Sheet