Prevention
Measles is very contagious. If you are unvaccinated and are exposed to measles, it is likely you will get sick. Luckily, measles is preventable through vaccination. The MMR immunization series of 2 shots provides lifetime immunity for measles, mumps and rubella for the vast majority of people. The vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles after 2 doses.
Children can begin the immunization series when they are 1 year old.
Children can begin the immunization series when they are 1 year old.
Outbreaks
If unvaccinated, you can get measles by being in a room where someone with measles has been. The virus remains in the air for up to 2 hours after the person has left the room. Symptoms begin 7 to 21 days after being exposed. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes. After a few days, a rash appears. You can spread measles up to 4 days before a rash appears.
Because of how contagious measles is, outbreaks are possible where MMR vaccination rates are low. If you are unvaccinated, you have nearly a 100% chance of getting sick if exposed to the measles virus.
In 2022 a measles outbreak in Ohio infected 85 children. 36 children were hospitalized during the outbreak. 84 of the cases were in those who were unvaccinated or partially vaccinated.
Because of how contagious measles is, outbreaks are possible where MMR vaccination rates are low. If you are unvaccinated, you have nearly a 100% chance of getting sick if exposed to the measles virus.
In 2022 a measles outbreak in Ohio infected 85 children. 36 children were hospitalized during the outbreak. 84 of the cases were in those who were unvaccinated or partially vaccinated.
Additional Information
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Asotin County Public Health leads the community through education and evidence-based practices to prevent illness, promote health, and protect the environment to improve the quality of life in our communities.