Measles is a highly contagious virus that causes fever, runny nose, cough, and red, itchy eyes. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes, making it easy to catch in crowded places. The best way to protect yourself from measles is by getting vaccinated. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is incredibly effective, with two doses offering about 97% protection. If you or your child gets a fever, sore throat, or red eyes, followed by a blotchy red rash, it could be measles. The rash usually starts on the face and then spreads down the body. If your child hasn’t been vaccinated and is exposed to measles, a dose of the MMR vaccine within three days of exposure may help prevent the disease from developing. The measles vaccine is typically given in two doses, starting when a child is about a year old, with a second dose at age four or five. The first dose can be given to children as young as six months old, but they’ll still need the two regular doses later.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that causes fever, runn….
