Measles is very contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles virus can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left the room.

The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine (also known as an “immunization”) can help prevent measles, mumps and rubella. The MMR vaccine is safe and effective. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends children receive their first dose of MMR vaccine between 12-15 months of age and a second dose between 4-6 years old.

More information about measles and the MMR vaccine:

• Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus, typically including high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes. Then, a rash of tiny, red spots breaks out. It starts at the head and spreads to the rest of the body.
• More than 95% of the people who receive a single dose of MMR will develop immunity to all three viruses. A second dose boosts immunity, typically enhancing protection to 98%.
• People with symptoms of measles should contact their healthcare provider immediately. DO NOT go to the doctor’s office, the hospital, or a public health clinic without first calling to let them know about your symptoms. Healthcare providers who suspect measles in a patient should notify public health immediately.
• For more information about measles, visit https://dph.georgia.gov/epidemiology/acute-disease-epidemiology/vaccine-preventable-diseases/measlesor https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html.
• Please contact your local health department or your primary care provider if you are not sure that you are fully vaccinated.
• District 4’s county health departments offer the MMR vaccine. Make an appointment online at district4health.org or call (800) 847-4262.

Immunizations like the MMR vaccine are a safe way to protect you, your family, and community, and they help save millions of lives each year. In the last 50 years in the U.S., vaccines have almost completely stopped diseases like diphtheria, measles, polio, smallpox, and tetanus that used to make people very sick — or even cause death. Today, immunizations can help prevent serious diseases like measles, the flu, COVID-19, and HPV.

Remember, vaccines aren’t just for kids. They are also important for older adults (especially those over 65), people with ongoing health problems, or anyone with a weakened immune system. Talk with your doctor or health department to find out which vaccines are best for you. You may also visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines for more information.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Natalie Shelton
natalie.shelton@dph.ga.gov or 706.302.6707