The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated against measles, a highly contagious and serious illness. In early 2025, measles cases have been increasing in several states, including Texas and Georgia. Unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to the virus have a 90% chance of getting infected, and those who contract measles can spread it for up to three weeks.

What is Measles?

Measles is a viral illness that affects the respiratory system and spreads through droplets from an infected person’s nose and throat. It can spread when someone with measles coughs or sneezes, releasing virus-infected droplets into the air. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure.

Early Signs and Symptoms

ADPH Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Karen Landers, explains that measles symptoms usually start with:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes

After these symptoms, a rash typically appears. People with measles can spread the virus up to four days before they show symptoms. Those with weakened immune systems may be contagious for a longer period.

Treatment and Complications

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Parents can help manage their child’s symptoms by:

• Ensuring they get plenty of fluids and rest
• Giving non-aspirin fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

In some cases, measles can lead to serious complications, including ear infections, pneumonia, or swelling of the brain (encephalitis).

Measles Vaccination

Most children are protected from measles through the MMR vaccine (Measles-Mumps-Rubella) or the MMRV vaccine (Measles-Mumps-Rubella-Varicella). The recommended schedule for these vaccines is:

• First Dose: Between 12 and 15 months old
• Second Dose: Between 4 and 6 years old

For babies as young as 6 months old who will be traveling internationally, the first dose can be given earlier. Vaccines are available at pediatricians’ offices and county health departments. The MMR vaccine is safe, and the risk of serious side effects is extremely low. Getting vaccinated is much safer than getting measles.

When to Call a Doctor

Parents should contact a healthcare provider right away if they think their child has measles or has been exposed to someone with measles, especially if the child:

• Is an infant
• Is on medication that weakens the immune system
• Has tuberculosis, cancer, or a condition that affects the immune system
• Has not received two doses of the measles vaccine

Learn More

For more information about measles and vaccinations, visit the Alabama Department of Public Health’s website: https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/immunization/measles.html.