Measles Information
Keeping Our Community Healthy
Cases of measle outbreaks are occurring in some areas of the country over the past few months. Although there are no reported cases in Maine, we are preparing for summer when folks enjoy traveling in and out of the state, which may lead to local cases. To keep everyone informed and safe, Northern Light Health is sharing important information about the virus to keep you up to date.
Measles is one of the most contagious of all infectious diseases. The virus is transmitted by direct contact with infectious droplets. It spreads easily in the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. The measles virus can even remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. A reported nine out of 10 susceptible people with close contact to a measles patient will develop measles.
Why is measles a concern? Measles can cause severe disease, complications, and even death, leading to serious health concerns, even years after an infection.
To stay protected from measles, make sure you are vaccinated for measles, mumps, and rubella, also known as the MMR vaccine. The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles. For optimal protection, individuals should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine. According to the CDC, most people vaccinated with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) and measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella vaccines (MMRV) will be protected for life.
Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash all over the body. If you suspect you or someone you know has measles, seek medical attention immediately, and please wear a mask to protect those around you.
Measles Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of measles?
High fever (may spike to more than 104° F); cough, runny nose; red, white spots inside the mouth that begin two to three days after symptoms begin, watery eyes (conjunctivitis); and rash that usually occurs three to five days after symptoms begin.
When will symptoms appear?
Measles symptoms appear 7 to 21 days after contact with the virus.
Who is most at risk?
Individuals most at risk are those that are unvaccinated for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). It can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5 years old, and can be deadly.
Is measles contagious?
Measles is one of the most contagious infectious disease in the world.
How is measles transmitted?
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. You can get measles just by being in a room where a person with measles has been. This can happen even up to two hours after that person has left. If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected.
What’s the best way to protect yourself from measles?
The best way to protect against measles is by getting a vaccine for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). MMR is safe and effective. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective.
How do I know if I’m vaccinated?
If you attended school or daycare in the US, you were likely required to receive the MMR vaccine. People vaccinated prior to 1968 may need to be revaccinated. Talk to your primary care provider if you have questions about your vaccination status.
Where can I learn more?