Measles Frequently Asked Questions

Published 5/30/25

Updated 12/11/25

1. What Is Measles and How Does It Spread?

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can live in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. You can get measles by breathing infected air or touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after touching a surface with the virus.

Measles spreads only from person to person. Animals can’t catch or spread measles.

2. How Contagious is Measles?

Measles is very contagious. If one person has measles, they can spread it to nine out of 10 unvaccinated people nearby. A person with measles can spread it to others before they even know they’re sick. Measles can spread from four days before the rash shows up to four days after.

3. What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Measles?

Symptoms usually appear seven to 14 days after exposure to the virus and include:

• High fever (may spike to more than 104°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• Tiny white spots (Koplik spots) inside the mouth, appearing 2 to 3 days after symptoms begin
• Rash starts 3 to 5 days after symptoms, beginning on the face and spreading down the body

4. What Does the Measles Rash Look Like on Different Skin Tones?

The measles rash typically consists of flat red spots that may merge as they spread. On lighter skin tones, the rash appears red or pink. On darker skin tones, it may look brown or purplish and can be less noticeable. Regardless of skin tone, the rash usually starts on the face and spreads downward. 

5. Can Measles Cause Serious Health Problems?

Yes, measles can cause serious health problems. These problems can include:

• Ear infections
• Diarrhea
• Pneumonia (infection of the lungs)
• Encephalitis (swelling of the brain)
• Death in severe cases

6. Who Is Most at Risk for Measles?

Measles can be serious for anyone, but some people are more at risk including:

• Children younger than five years old
• Adults over 20 years old
• Pregnant people
• People with weak immune systems, like those with leukemia or HIV

7. Who Can Get the Measles Vaccine?

The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. The U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends:

• Children: First dose between 12 and 15 months of age, and a second dose at between four and 6 years of age.
• Teens and adults: If not already vaccinated, they should receive two doses at least 28 days apart. 
  
  

8. How Effective Is the Measles Vaccine?

The MMR vaccine is very effective:

• One dose: About 93% effective at preventing measles
• Two doses: About 97% effective at preventing measles 

9. What Should I Know About Measles Before Traveling?

Measles is common in many parts of the world. Each year, unvaccinated travelers bring measles to the U.S. after getting it in other countries. Most are Americans, but some are international visitors. Before traveling, consider the following:

• Vaccines for you and your family at least two weeks before departure
  • Infants six to 11 months old should receive one dose of MMR vaccine before international travel
• If your trip is in less than two weeks and you’re not protected, the CDC still recommends getting the MMR vaccine

10. What Should Parents of Infants Know About Measles?

Infants under 12 months are too young for the routine MMR vaccine. To protect your baby:

• Ensure family members and caregivers are vaccinated
• Avoid exposing your baby to people who are sick
• Practice good hygiene, like frequent handwashing

If you plan to travel internationally, infants six through 11 months old should receive one dose of MMR vaccine before departure. 

11. How Can I Get the Measles Vaccine in Stamford?

You can get the MMR vaccine through:

• Your healthcare provider
• Local pharmacies
• Community health clinics

12. Where can I get more information?

For more information, check out this webpage from the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is also available in Spanish, Haitian Creole, and Ukrainian.

Have Questions? We're Here to Help!

You can call the Stamford Department of Health and Human Services at (203) 977-4399.
Together, we can help prevent measles cases in Stamford!


Source: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/about/index.html