Table of Contents
We’re hearing many concerns from parents about contagious diseases, and measles is at the top of the list. Parents and caregivers are on edge, and their worry is understandable, given ongoing, highly publicized outbreaks in Texas and a few cases in the DC region. Are our children safe from measles? What can we do to stay healthy during uncertain times? The good news is that measles is preventable through vaccination and presents a low risk in our community thanks to high vaccination rates and herd immunity.
What Is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. Known for its visible spotty rash, measles (rubeola) can be severe and even fatal for young children. Measles still kills around 200,000 people a year, according to the Mayo Clinic. Most measles deaths occur outside of the U.S., thanks to high vaccination rates in our country. However, with two deaths occurring during recent outbreaks in the U.S., it’s more important than ever to stay vigilant and vaccinate our kids.
Why Are Measles Cases Rising?
In 2024, the U. S. reported 285 measles cases in 32 states, nearly double the total reported in 2023. As of March 2025, more than 300 cases have been reported in 15 states, surpassing last year’s numbers. A significant outbreak in Texas and other states made headlines this year, with more than 300 cases and two deaths. The outbreak has spread to multiple states, mainly affecting unvaccinated children and those whose vaccination status is unknown. Childhood vaccinations took a hit after a now-debunked article linked the MMR vaccine with autism more than 25 years ago. In the U.S., childhood vaccination rates also fell after the COVID-19 pandemic. As healthcare providers, we are working hard to dispel misinformation and encourage parents to vaccinate their children against preventable illnesses like measles, polio and whooping cough.
How Does Measles Spread?
One of the main concerns about measles is that it’s a highly contagious disease. Measles is transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and the virus can stay active in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. People with measles are usually contagious for four days before their rash appears through four days afterward.
What Are Potential Complications From Measles?
Initial symptoms usually start 7 to 14 days after exposure and include a high fever of up to 104 degrees. Patients may have a cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. As the disease progresses, tiny white spots may appear inside the mouth, and the telltale red measles rash starts at the hairline and spreads downward. Common complications include ear infections and diarrhea. More severe complications include pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and death. There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Treatment usually focuses on reducing complications from symptoms and preventing life-threatening complications. Prevention is the best strategy, and childhood immunizations are the best tool.
How Can I Protect My Child From Measles?
Getting your child vaccinated against measles is the best way to keep them safe and healthy–and this helps protect younger infants who can’t yet get the vaccine. Protection from measles is part of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine, which most children receive around their first birthday. The recommended schedule for children is to receive their first dose at 12 to 15 months and their second dose at 4 to 6 years. The two-dose protocol is 97 percent effective at preventing measles. High vaccination rates help create what’s known as herd immunity, which protects vulnerable individuals who can’t get vaccinated, including infants and people with certain medical conditions.
Is The Measles Vaccine Safe For My Young Child?
Measles vaccinations are safe and effective. Unfortunately, misinformation and false claims about the MMR vaccine have created concerns about links to autism. A 1998 study that suggested possible links between the MMR vaccine and autism was debunked and retracted in 2010. However, the medical community is still working to rebuild trust among some parents for this lifesaving vaccine. Fortunately, the Northern Virginia area has high immunization rates, so the chances of an outbreak are low.
What Should I Do If I Think My Child Has Measles?
If you think your child has measles, preventing complications and stopping the spread are key. Contact your pediatrician for guidance on treatment. Meanwhile, avoid transmission by staying home and immediately notifying your child’s school or daycare.
The two keys to preventing measles outbreaks are vaccinations and vigilance. We can avoid measles by ensuring our children’s MMR vaccines are current. At Loudoun Pediatric Associates, we are happy to talk with parents concerned about the MMR vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. Please get in touch with our office if you have questions or need additional information. Preventing communicable diseases is a community effort. Working with your child’s pediatrician, you can help prevent measles outbreaks in our community by staying informed and proactive.
