Understanding Measles: Prevention, Symptoms and Vaccination

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and Oakland County Health Division confirmed an adult case of measles in Oakland County, marking Michigan’s first case this year and since July 2024. This incident, alongside outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico, highlights the rapid resurgence of measles, with nearly 400 cases reported recently. Global outbreaks and declining U.S. vaccination rates highlight the importance of protecting against this disease that can lead to severe complications, especially in children.

“This most recent case in Michigan is a critical reminder of why immunizations are so important,” said Paul Berg, M.D., M.H.A., chief medical officer and senior vice president, MyMichigan Health. “With only a few cases in recent years, many parents might not have seen the severe impact measles can have. Vaccinations are crucial not only for safeguarding each child but also for protecting all of our communities.”

Measles is a highly contagious, viral illness that causes fever and rash. It is spread through the air by an infected person breathing, coughing or sneezing and is so contagious that any child or adult who is exposed to it and is not immune will probably get the disease. Fortunately, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection.

MyMichigan Health offers the following question and answers on the importance of vaccination to help stop of the spread of the measles:

Q. What are the signs and symptoms of the measles?

A. Measles signs and symptoms generally appear around 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. The typical signs and symptoms of measles include a fever, dry cough, runny nose, and sore throat. Additionally, individuals may experience inflamed eyes, known as conjunctivitis. A main feature of measles is the presence of tiny white spots with bluish-white centers on a red background found inside the mouth on the inner lining of the cheek, referred to as Koplik’s spots. Another feature of the disease is a skin rash made up of large, flat blotches that often merge into one another.

Q. Can you still get measles if fully vaccinated?

A. While it is rare, it is possible to contract measles even if fully vaccinated. The MMR vaccine is 93 percent effective after the first dose and 97 percent effective after the second. If a vaccinated person contracts measles, they are likely to experience a milder form of the illness.

Q. Should adults consider a booster shot?
A. A booster shot is generally unnecessary for those fully vaccinated with two doses of the MMR vaccine, as it provides lifelong protection in most cases. During outbreaks, receiving an additional dose is not typically recommended unless specific circumstances arise.

Q. What should you do if you are unvaccinated or unsure of your vaccination status?

A. If unvaccinated or undervaccinated, it is advised to visit a health care provider to receive the appropriate MMR vaccine doses. Adults who have never been vaccinated should get two doses, while those who have received only one dose require one more. A blood test can determine immunity if vaccination records are unavailable.

Q. Are there circumstances where adults shouldn’t get vaccinated?

A. The MMR vaccine is live attenuated (weakened) live virus vaccine, meaning it contains a modified but active pathogen. Individuals who are pregnant or immunocompromised should avoid vaccination.

Q. If you’ve had measles before, is vaccination necessary?

A. Once a person has had measles, confirmed by a health care provider, they are considered immune for life, and vaccination is not required. Those born before 1957 may be naturally immune due to past epidemics.

Q. Are the children of vaccinated mothers protected at birth?

A. Infants of vaccinated mothers typically receive maternal antibodies that protect them at birth, though this immunity diminishes over months.

Q. When should kids get vaccinated?

A. The recommended vaccination schedule includes a two-dose series: the first dose between 12 to 15 months and the second between four to six years. Infants traveling to areas with measles can receive the vaccine as early as six months, but they will still need the standard two-dose series starting at 12 months.

Q. How can parents protect unvaccinated infants?

A. Parents should minimize their child’s exposure to sick individuals and large crowds. They should also check vaccination policies at places the child frequents, like daycare or school.

Q. How can immunocompromised children be protected?

A. Parents should evaluate the vaccination status of individuals in close contact with their child. It’s important to immediately address potential exposures with a healthcare provider.

Q. What should you do if your child contracts measles?

A. If measles is suspected, contact your child’s health care provider to prevent spread during an office visit. Measles is confirmed via a blood test and throat swab. Supportive care includes fever management, hydration, and monitoring for severe symptoms like breathing difficulties or changes in alertness.

“Maintaining high vaccination rates is crucial to preventing measles outbreaks,” said Dr. Berg. “The MMR vaccine remains the best defense, providing effective and long-lasting protection against this highly contagious disease. I highly recommend the MMR vaccine for all eligible patients. Those who need the vaccine or have specific concerns are encouraged to speak to their health care provider.”