What Are Measles? Here’s What You Need to Know

With a recent surge in Measles in North Carolina, let’s look at what exactly is Measles — and how can you prevent it.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. Though once considered nearly eliminated in the United States, measles has made a concerning comeback in recent years due to declining vaccination rates and increased international travel.

Health officials warn that measles is not a harmless childhood illness. It can cause serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems.

What Is Measles?

Measles is caused by the measles virus, which infects the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body. The virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a room, making it one of the most contagious diseases known.

Common symptoms include:

High fever Cough Runny nose Red, watery eyes A distinctive red rash that usually begins on the face and spreads downward Tiny white spots inside the mouth (known as Koplik spots)

Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure. People with measles are contagious several days before the rash appears and for several days afterward.

Why Measles Is Dangerous

While many people recover, measles can lead to serious and sometimes deadly complications, including:

Pneumonia Swelling of the brain (encephalitis) Severe dehydration Vision loss Miscarriage or premature birth during pregnancy Death, particularly in young children

Before vaccines were widely available, measles caused hundreds of deaths in the U.S. each year and millions worldwide.

How Measles Spreads

Measles spreads through respiratory droplets and airborne particles. Simply being in the same room as someone with measles—even after they’ve left—can lead to infection if you are not immune.

A person with measles can infect up to 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people who are exposed, making outbreaks difficult to contain once they start.

How to Prevent Measles

1. Get Vaccinated

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles. Two doses provide about 97% protection.

The CDC recommends:

First dose at 12–15 months of age Second dose at 4–6 years of age

Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status or immunity should talk to their healthcare provider.

2. Protect Vulnerable People

Babies under 12 months, pregnant people who are not immune, and individuals with weakened immune systems are especially at risk. Community-wide vaccination helps protect those who cannot safely receive the vaccine.

3. Avoid Exposure During Outbreaks

If there is a known measles outbreak:

Avoid crowded indoor spaces if you are unvaccinated Follow public health guidance Monitor for symptoms after potential exposure

4. Stay Home and Isolate if Sick

Anyone with symptoms of measles should stay home and contact a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital, to avoid exposing others.

What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Exposed

If you believe you’ve been exposed to measles:

Contact your healthcare provider right away Check your vaccination records Watch for symptoms for up to two weeks Avoid contact with vulnerable individuals

Early medical guidance can help prevent further spread and reduce complications.