Ask the Pediatrician: Measles Facts

Measles is a viral infection that can cause a red, blotchy rash, fever, cough and a runny nose. This highly contagious condition can also lead to serious and even life-threatening complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis.

Measles is spread by coming into contact with someone who has the virus. When someone with the condition coughs, sneezes or talks, this can spread the virus onto nearby people, air and surfaces. The virus can travel more than six feet and live for up to two hours in the air after an infected person leaves the room.

What are the signs and symptoms of measles?

• Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure (but can present up to 21 days after contact with someone with measles). These symptoms include:

• High fever

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Red, watery eyes

• Koplik spots (small white spots inside the mouth surrounded by localized redness) which may appear before the rash

• A red rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body

When should kids get the measles vaccine?

Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine at the following times:

• First dose at 12 to 15 months of age

• Second dose at 4 to 6 years of age

Special considerations for travel or community outbreak:

• Babies younger than age 6 months cannot be vaccinated but may have some protection from antibodies passed to them during pregnancy. Consider delaying travel to locations with measles outbreaks to avoid risks of severe illness.

• Babies age 6 to 11 months old may receive the 1st dose early if traveling to areas with a measles outbreak. They will still need the 2-dose series if they received a dose before age 12 months.

• Babies 12 months and older should receive their first dose of MMR vaccine in addition to the other vaccinations recommended at that age. The second dose of MMR is usually given between 4-6 years of age. In high risk situations the second vaccine may be given earlier than 4-6 years of age as long as the second dose is at least 28 days after the first dose .

• Be sure to talk with your pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns regarding vaccination and immunity.