Measles Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Measles?

Measles is a very contagious viral disease. It spreads easily from person to person. Measles is not always present in the United States, but small outbreaks still happen each year, usually starting with someone who traveled from another country.

How Is Measles Spread?

Measles spreads through the air. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, tiny droplets from their nose and mouth go into the air. Someone can breathe in these droplets or touch a surface with the droplets on it. A person with measles can spread it from 4 days before the rash starts until 4 days after the rash appears.

What Are the Symptoms of Measles?

Measles symptoms usually start 7 to 14 days after a person is infected. Early symptoms include:

A rash appears 3 to 5 days after the first symptoms. The rash usually starts on the face at the hairline and behind the ears. It then spreads down to the chest, back, legs, and feet.

How Soon Do Symptoms Appear?

Most people start to feel symptoms 10–12 days after being exposed. However, symptoms can begin anytime between 7 and 21 days after exposure.

Who Is at Risk for Measles?

Anyone who is exposed to measles and is not immune (not vaccinated or has never had measles) can get the disease.

You are considered protected (immune) if you have any of the following:

How Is Measles Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider may suspect measles based on symptoms, especially if the person recently traveled outside the United States or was around someone with a fever and rash. Lab tests, such as a throat or nose swab or a urine sample, can confirm the diagnosis.

What Should You Do If You Think You May Be Infected?

Call your healthcare provider before going to the clinic. Tell them your symptoms and if you were exposed to someone with measles. They will tell you if you should come in or if you need to be seen in another location to protect others.

How Is Measles Treated?

There is no specific medicine that cures measles. A healthcare provider will treat symptoms and manage any complications.

Should People Around Someone with Measles Get Treated?

People who are at risk (not vaccinated and never had measles) may benefit from post‑exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
There are two types:

Can a Person Get Measles Again?

No. If you have had measles, you are protected for life.

How Good Is the MMR Vaccine?

Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles. One dose is over 90% effective.

Who Should Receive the Measles Vaccine?

Children, teens, and adults born in 1957 or later should have proof of vaccination or another form of immunity unless they have a medical reason not to get the vaccine. Some healthcare workers born before 1957 may also need proof of immunity.