MEASLES
What is measles?
Measles is an airborne infection that is highly contagious and can be spread easily when someone coughs or sneezes. The virus can stay in the air for approximately two hours after the infected person has left, which in turn can infect others. About 90% of the close contacts who are not immune will also become infected.
An infected individual will show symptoms of a runny nose, cough, a high fever (104 degrees Fahrenheit), a rash (starts at the hairline spreading down the trunk, arms and legs) and watery eyes (conjunctivitis). Illness can cause serious health complications such as: pneumonia and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain due to infection).
The best protection against measles is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. MMR vaccine provides long-lasting protection against all strains of measles.
JCCHS provides the MMR vaccine. Call (660)747-6121 to schedule an appointment or if you have questions regarding the vaccination.
Signs and symptoms
Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus. Common measles symptoms include:
- High fever (may spike to more than 104° F)
- Cough
- Runny nose (coryza)
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Rash
additional resources
For any questions or concerns regarding Measles, please call (660) 747-6121.
