There’s a Lot to Worry About, Take Measles Off the List
Isn’t measles just a rash?
Measles is more than a rash and fever. It is a dangerous, highly contagious disease that is particularly harmful for babies and young children. One to two weeks after infection, the first symptoms begin, including a cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a high fever. Two to three days after initial symptoms, small white spots known as Koplik spots may develop inside the mouth. Then after three to five days, the measles rash appears. Those infected with measles may also experience ear infections, diarrhea, and a fever that can spike to over 104° Fahrenheit. The most severe complications include pneumonia, brain swelling, hospitalization, and death.
How does it spread?
The measles virus is extremely contagious and lives in the mucus of an infected person’s throat and nose. It is spread through the air by sneezing and coughing. The virus can survive in the air for up to two hours. When others breathe infected air, or touch their face after touching a surface with the virus, they may become infected. Someone with measles can spread the disease before they even know they are sick.
Who should be immunized?
The MMR immunization is administered to children in two doses. The first dose can be given at 12-15 months of age, and the second at 4 years old. Following the Pennyrile District Health Department schedule, we administer the first dose of MMR at 12 months. Some adults may need to be vaccinated as well, depending on their vaccine history and age. According to the CDC, one dose of the MMR immunization is 93% effective against measles, and two doses are 97% effective.
