How do people get measles?

Measles is one of the most contagious and easily spread viruses. The virus is present in the noses and throats of infected people. It spreads into the air when they cough, sneeze, or breathe, and can stay in the air for up to 2 hours, even after the infected person leaves.

You can get measles by breathing in the virus or touching infected surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Can anyone get measles?

Anyone who hasn’t had measles before or isn’t vaccinated can get measles.

Once you get measles, your body builds immunity and you can’t get it again. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is nearly as effective. Getting both MMR doses is 97% effective in preventing measles.

Is it better to get immunity from the measles vaccine or from having the disease?

It’s safest to get immunity from the vaccine, without the risk of getting sick. Getting measles can cause life-threatening health problems.

Is measles dangerous?

Measles can be very dangerous, causing serious pneumonia or brain inflammation (encephalitis). Measles is especially dangerous for:

• Children, especially those under 5 years
• Pregnant women
• People with weakened immune systems (such as from cancer treatment, transplants, HIV infection, and other conditions)

Overall, less than 1% of people with measles die from it. But high-risk people, such as those with weakened immune systems, have a much higher chance of death.

Another danger of measles is that even a mild case can cause long-term damage to the immune system, making a person more vulnerable to colds, flu, COVID-19, and other diseases for years after.

How long after exposure do measles symptoms start? What do symptoms look like?

Symptoms usually begin 7 to 14 days after being exposed. Even before the measles rash develops, early symptoms appear:

• Fever (over 104° F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes

A few days later, a red rash starts on the face and spreads over the body. In severe cases, patients can develop brain swelling, encephalitis, and pneumonia.

What is the treatment for measles?

There is no antiviral treatment for measles.

How can I protect myself and others from measles?

The best way to protect yourself from measles and keep it from spreading to others is to get the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. It’s safe and very effective, preventing measles in about 97% of people when they get both doses.

How do I find out if I was vaccinated?

• If you were born before 1957, you’re likely immune to measles, since most people were exposed to the virus before the vaccine became widespread.
• If born after 1957, check previous medical or school records, or contact your primary care provider.

Can’t I just wear a mask?

Measles is extremely contagious. Wearing a mask may limit the spread, but is not a substitute for getting the measles vaccine.

I may have been exposed to measles and don’t know my vaccination status. What should I do?

Talk to a doctor right away. Experts recommend you get a first dose of the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure (about 3 days). If exposure took place more than 72 hours ago, contact the Virginia Department of Health.

If you cannot receive the MMR due to other medical issues, your doctor may recommend a shot called immunoglobulin.

FAQs about the Measles (MMR) Vaccine

How do I know if I need a measles vaccine?

You don’t need a measles vaccine if you:

• Already received 2 doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine
• Were born before 1957 (when most people got measles, so are considered immune)

Do I need a booster shot?

If you’re up to date on your MMR vaccine, you don’t need a booster shot. If you had a measles vaccine between 1963 and 1967, you may need a booster. Ask your doctor.

Is the MMR vaccine safe?

Yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that the MMR vaccine, which also protects against mumps and rubella, is safe and highly effective, with two doses giving about 97% protection against measles. (One dose is about 93% effective.)

What ages can be vaccinated?

Measles vaccines are usually given starting at 12 months of age. By 12 months, a baby’s immune system is mature enough to build long-lasting immunity. Before then, babies have some protection from their mothers, but it doesn’t last long.

Children as young as 6 months old may get the vaccine if there is an epidemic or they are traveling outside the U.S. Even so, these children would still need 2 doses of the vaccine after age 12 months.

There is no age limit on getting the vaccine, so even elderly people can safely receive it.

If a mom is vaccinated, is her baby protected from measles?

Yes. If a mom got the measles vaccine before getting pregnant, her baby is usually protected. Mothers can pass on antibodies to their babies before birth. But, by the time the baby is 6 to 12 months old, those antibodies go away, and the baby needs their own vaccine.

I have a baby who is too young for the measles vaccine. What should I do?

Babies 6 months and younger still have their mom’s antibodies if she was vaccinated before getting pregnant. Keep babies away from people who have a fever and/or rash. If your baby is exposed, your doctor can give him or her immunoglobulin or the vaccine, depending on the situation. 

How long does protection from the measles vaccine last?

A single dose protects for about 25 years. Getting 2 doses makes it last even longer. Studies show that most people still have protection after many years.

Can I get a blood test to check if I’m immune to measles?

A blood test, called a measles titer, can check if you have measles antibodies to protect you from getting measles.

What should I do if I’m not immune to measles?

If you’re not immune, you can still get the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.

If you have a weakened immune system (immunocompromised), there are some restrictions, so talk to your doctor.

Can I still get measles if I had the vaccine?

About 3 in 100 people still get measles after getting the vaccine, but it’s much milder than if they hadn’t gotten vaccinated.

Is it OK to get the measles vaccine if…

… I have cancer?

Sometimes. Talk with your doctor.

… I’m a transplant recipient or donor?

If you’re getting an organ transplant, you’ll get vaccinated against measles before surgery. If you get exposed to measles after a transplant, your doctor may recommend that you get an immunoglobulin shot. 

…I already have a weakened immune system (immunocompromised)?

It depends. Talk to your provider about your specific condition.

If I live with someone who can’t get the measles vaccine, what should I do?

Make sure you are vaccinated. People with compromised or weak immune systems are safest if they are exposed only to vaccinated people.