Know the Facts About Measles

Recommended Immunization Schedule

Immunization Records

Know the Facts About Measles
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person. It can cause serious health complications—especially in young children—including pneumonia, brain swelling, immune system amnesia, and even death.

What Are the Symptoms of Measles?
Symptoms usually appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include:

• High fever (often over 101°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• A rash that usually starts on the face and spreads downward to the rest of the body

The rash typically appears 3–5 days after the first symptoms and is contagious until 4 days after the rash appears.

What Should You Do if You Think You Have Measles?
If you or your child develops symptoms:

• Call your healthcare provider before going to a clinic or hospital—this helps prevent spreading the virus to others.
• Avoid public places and stay home except to get medical care.
• Follow your provider’s instructions for testing and care.

The best protection against measles is the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children get two doses:

• The first dose at 12–15 months of age
• The second dose at 4–6 years of age

Who is Considered Immune to Measles?
Not everyone needs another MMR shot. Your birth year can help determine your immunity

• Born before 1957? You're considered immune because measles was common during that time.
• Born between 1963–1967? You may have received an older version of the vaccine and might need a second dose—but this only applies to a small number of people
• Born between 1968–1989? You probably got one dose of the MMR vaccine, which provides strong protection (about 93%).
• You only need a second dose if you're at higher risk—like working in healthcare, going to college, or traveling internationally)
• Born after 1989? You likely received two doses of the MMR vaccine and are fully protected

Please contact PPHD at 308-633-2866 or your physician if you have any questions or unsure about your vaccination status.

Planning Travel?
If you are traveling, it is a good idea to check with your doctor or PPHD to determine if you need the MMR vaccine especially if you are traveling internationally or to places with outbreaks such as West Texas.
For infants traveling internationally or to outbreak areas: MMR can be given as early as 6 months—speak to a healthcare provider for more information.

Measles was considered eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 however, cases have been rising again due to lower vaccination rates. In 2025, there have been multiple outbreaks reported in several states, reminding us how quickly measles can spread when communities are under-vaccinated. The CDC has a page dedicated to measles cases and outbreaks in the US and is updated every Tuesday with the most current data https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html. 
Make sure you and your family are protected. Check your vaccination records and talk to your vaccine provider or PPHD if you're unsure about your status. You can also check you vaccination status on the Nebraska State Immunization Information System here: https://nesiis-dhhs-prod.ne.gov/prd_ir/public/clientSearch.do?language=en
No insurance? No problem. Ask about the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.
Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety and quality of life for all who live, learn, work and play in the Panhandle.  Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community.
Need more information?
You can visit the CDC website to learn more about measles https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html.