Measles PSA

LAST UPDATED: 3/24/2025

Measles is a highly contagious disease that is caused by the measles virus. It spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The measles virus can survive for up to 2 hours in the air and on surfaces. 9 out of 10 people who are not immune to measles will get it. Measles is especially dangerous for babies and young children.

Symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after exposure. Symptoms of measles include:

• Rash
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• High fever, which may exceed 104˚F
• Tiny white spots (Koplik spots) in the mouth

Individuals at highest risk for being infected with measles and developing complications include:

• Children younger than 5 years old
• Adults older than 20 years old
• Pregnant women
• People with weakened immune systems

The best way to prevent measles is to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Most people who receive the MMR or MMRV vaccine are protected for life.

The MMR vaccine is safe and effective. 1 dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective at preventing measles and 2 doses are 97% effective. Please talk with your primary care physician about getting the MMR vaccine if you are unvaccinated or unsure of your vaccination status.

Additional resources:

• CDC Measles Homepage
• CDC How Measles Spreads
• CDC Measles Symptoms and Complications
• CDC Measles Vaccination