What is Measles?

Protect yourself, your family, and your community.

What you need to know about Measles

What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness characterized by fever, rash, and other symptoms. Recent outbreaks have been reported in Texas and New Mexico. As of March 13, 2025, the CDC has confirmed 301 measles cases nationwide, surpassing the total for 2024. In Kansas, the first reported case since 2018 was reported in Stevens County. According to the CDC, 17% of cases in 2025 have required hospitalization, with two deaths reported.

What are symptoms of measles?

Measles symptoms can appear 10 to 14 days after contact with the virus and include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red/watery eyes. After symptoms begin, tiny white spots (Koplik spots) may appear inside the mouth followed by a measles rash. The rash begins as flat red spots on the face at the hairline then spreads down the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet. Small, raised bumps may also appear on top of the flat red spots.

What should I do if I was exposed to someone with measles?

A person with measles can spread the disease to others from four days before the rash appears to four days after. If you believe you’ve been exposed to someone with measles, it’s best to quarantine and avoid exposure to others if you experience symptoms until you are evaluated by your healthcare provider. Check your vaccination status, get vaccinated if needed, watch for symptoms, and contact your provider if you have any concerns.

Stay Safe: Update Your Vaccines

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious health complications. The best way to prevent measles is to get the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Vaccination Guidelines for Children and Adults

Children

Children

  • 12 to 15 months of age: First dose of MMR
  • 4 to 6 years old: Second dose of MMR
  • Infants (6 to 11 months): Only if traveling outside the U.S.
Adults

Adults

Born Before 1957:

You are considered immune if you received at least one dose of MMR or have immunity evidence (blood test). If you who had measles as a child, you are immune and cannot get it again.

Born Between 1957-1989:

You likely received only one MMR dose (90% effective with one dose), but we encourage a second dose for better protection (99% effectiveness with two doses).

Born After 1989:

You should have received two doses of MMR and do not require additional doses.

Schedule Your Vaccine

For more information or to schedule your vaccine, contact your primary care provider.

Myths and Facts

Sources: Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Note: Some individuals may not develop an immune response to the MMR vaccine. If you have concerns, consider a blood test to check immunity levels (titers). If unsure about your immunization status, consider getting an additional MMR dose or having your titers checked.