Measles
A serious infection of the brain, ears, and lungs that can be easily prevented by a vaccine
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that causes fever, rash and pink eye that can spread and turn into ear infections, brain swelling, and pneumonia.
- Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing, or even lingering in the air for hours. 90% of unvaccinated people who are exposed will get infected.
- Symptoms
- High fever
- Red rash that starts on the face and spreads over the body
- Bluish-white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
- Pink eye, cough, and runny nose
- Complications (3 in 10 cases)
- Ear infections, pneumonia, and brain swelling
- Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) – a fatal brain disease that can develop years later
- Hemorrhagic measles (severe bleeding), clotting disorders, and death
- No Cure—Only Prevention
- There is no treatment for measles. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is the only way to prevent infection and its life-threatening complications.
The MMR Vaccines remain the best protection against Measles. Stay protected. Stay informed.
Here are videos that go into more detail about Measles.