Measles is a highly contagious illness that may have the following symptoms: fever, pink or red eyes and cough, followed by a red blotchy rash that appears on the 3rd to 7th day beginning on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. The disease is more severe in infants and adults. 

 

Transmission:

Measles is spread from person-to-person by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected person or through the air from an infected person’s coughing or sneezing. Symptoms usually appear within 7 to 18 days, although they may occur as late as 21 days, after exposure. It is important to note, most adults born in the United States received the measles vaccine as a child and are protected. However, people who have not had the disease or who have not been successfully immunized are at risk for infection. 

 

Prevention:

Measles can be prevented by a two dose vaccination. This is a safe and highly effective vaccine. The first dose of measles vaccine is usually given between 12 and 15 months of age. A second dose of vaccine is given at school entry (4 to 6 years of age). Both doses are generally given as combined measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine. 

 

Residents should contact their primary care physician to verify their vaccination status and to contact their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of measles.

 

Uninsured District of Columbia residents can call the DC Department of Health Immunization Program at (202) 576-7130 or refer to the DC Department of Health’s Measles Fact Sheet for more information.