Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus. It spreads through the air through coughing and sneezing. Measles starts with a fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and sore throat, and is followed by a rash that spreads all over the body. About three out of 10 people who get measles will develop one or more complications including pneumonia, ear infections, or diarrhea. Complications are more common in adults and young children.
Information for Parents
Measles can be serious, especially for children younger than 5 years old. It can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and death. Learn how you can protect your child from measles:
Measles Cases and Outbreaks
From January 1 to January 30, 2015, 102 people from 14 states were reported to have measles*. Most of these cases are part of a large, ongoing multi-state outbreak linked to an amusement park in California.
* CDC will update this data weekly on Mondays.
For Healthcare Providers
Think measles.
Consider measles in patients with a fever, rash, and cough, coryza and conjunctivitis—the three “C”s. Ask if they are vaccinated against measles and whether they have recently traveled internationally or if there’s measles in the community.
Vaccination
Children should get two doses of MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine—
- the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age and
- the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age.
Some adults need MMR vaccine, too. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions.
Questions about Measles in the U.S.
If measles is eliminated, why do people still get it here? Am I protected against measles? Do I ever need a booster shot? Could measles ever re-establish itself in the U.S.? See answers to these frequently asked questions and more.
Advice for Travelers
Before traveling internationally, make sure you and your family's vaccinations are up to date. CDC recommends that all U.S. residents 6 months of age and older be protected from measles and receive measles vaccine, if needed, prior to departure.
Travel Notices:
- Watch (Level 1):
Measles in the Philippines - Watch (Level 1):
Measles in Vietnam
- Page last reviewed: November 3, 2014
- Page last updated: February 6, 2015
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