Measles, a highly contagious but preventable disease, is impacting communities across the world, including in Texas and New Mexico, where an outbreak continues to expand. In 2023, an estimated 10.3 million people were infected with measles globally, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported over 200 cases in the United States (U.S.) as of the first week of March 2025.
Widespread vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine reduced disease rates in the 20th century and led to the U.S. achieving national measles elimination in 2000. The U.S. has since maintained measles elimination status for over 20 years, thanks to the MMR vaccine, national immunization programs, and effective prevention and control interventions.
“The MMR vaccine is highly effective at protecting people against what can be severe cases of measles, or even death,” said Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA. “We know from the CDC that 90% of people exposed to measles will become sick if they are not protected. For those who are vaccinated, one dose is 93% effective, and two doses are 97% effective.”
Measles spreads from person to person through the air or contaminated surfaces and can live for up to two hours in an airspace after the infected person leaves the area. Symptoms typically include high fever, cough, a runny nose, red, watery eyes, and a rash three to five days after symptoms begin.
How To Protect Children
Protect children from measles by following recommended preventative immunization schedules. Children need two doses of the MMR vaccine.
One dose at 12–15 months, and the second dose at 4–6 years old.
Infants ages 6–11 months who are traveling internationally should get one dose of MMR before they travel. These infants will then need their standard doses at 12–15 months and 4–6 years old.
How To Protect Adults
Adults with no evidence of immunity should have at least one dose of MMR. Some adults may need a second dose if they are at a higher risk of being exposed. Women of childbearing age should be vaccinated before pregnancy if they are not already protected.
Contact a healthcare provider with concerns regarding measles protection, especially if you are planning to travel to an area where measles is spreading.
Properly vaccinate against measles at least two weeks before international travel.
Contact a healthcare provider with any immunization concerns.
Watch for any symptoms for three weeks after travel and contact a healthcare provider immediately if you become sick after travel. If possible, call ahead of visiting your healthcare provider to let them know about your travel history and symptoms.
Severe Complications
Contracting measles can lead to severe complications, including:
Hospitalization – About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the U.S. who get measles are hospitalized.
Pneumonia.
Encephalitis (swelling of the brain).
Death.
Complications during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant and have not had the MMR vaccine may experience premature birth or a low-birth-weight baby.
Who is at Risk?
Groups more likely to suffer from severe measles complications include:
Children younger than 5.
Adults older than 20.
Pregnant women.
People with weakened immune systems.
“Protection from measles is a community effort,” said Dr. Vanderhoff. “Following the recommended MMR schedule is the best way to safeguard individuals and communities. Highly vaccinated communities protect individuals who cannot be vaccinated.”
About the Ohio Department of Health
The Ohio Department of Health’s mission is advancing the health and well-being of all Ohioans. ODH is transforming the state’s public health system through unique partnerships and funding streams; addressing the community conditions and inequities that lead to disparities in health outcomes; and implementing data-driven, evidence-based solutions.
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