Measles

Measles is more than just a little rash and fever that clears up in a few days. Measles can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5 years old. It is highly contagious. If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected, according to the CDC.

The best protection against measles is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. MMR vaccine provides long-lasting protection against all strains of measles.

2025 trends

As of Feb. 20, 2025, a total of 93 measles cases have been reported by 8 jurisdictions: Alaska, California, Georgia, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, Rhode Island, and Texas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There have been no reported cases of Measles in Oklahoma in 2025. However, there has been a recent outbreak in the South Plains region of Texas. You can keep up with the CDC numbers through their website.

The CDC indicates the MMR vaccine is very effective in protecting people against measles, mumps and rubella, and preventing the complications caused by these diseases. People who received two doses of the MMR vaccine as children, according to the U.S. vaccination schedule, are usually considered protected for life and do not need a booster dose.

If you're not sure of your vaccination status, talk with your healthcare provider.

Symptoms

Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus. Common measles symptoms include:

High fever (may spike to more than 104° F)
Cough
Runny nose (coryza)
Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
Rash

How Measles spreads

Measles is highyly contagious. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can get measles just by being in a room where a person with measles has been. This can happen up to 2 hours after that person has left.

Call your healthcare provider immediately if you think you have been exposed.

Prevention

Protect yourself with the vaccine. According to the CDC, the best way to protect yourself against measles is with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. MMR is safe and effective. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective.

Prevent measles and talk to your healthcare provider about the MMR vaccine, especially if planning to travel.