Measles: How to Protect Your Family from This Preventable Disease

By Samantha Simmons

Measles may sound like an illness from the past, but it remains a significant threat in today’s world. This highly contagious viral disease can spread like wildfire, especially in communities with low vaccination rates. The good news? It’s entirely preventable.

In this post, we’ll break down what measles is, how it spreads, and the simple but crucial steps you can take to protect your family.

What Is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. The virus can remain in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, making it incredibly easy to contract. If one person has measles, up to 90% of the people around them who aren’t immune will also become infected.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles and protect communities from outbreaks.

Cases of Confirmed Measles Cases

The importance of immunization is especially clear given the recent rise in cases: as of April 10, 2025, a total of 712 confirmed measles cases have been reported across 25 U.S. jurisdictions, including Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, and Washington.

In 2024, the United States reported a total of 285 measles cases. Children under 5 years old accounted for the largest share of cases at 42% (120 cases), followed by those aged 5–19 at 31% (88 cases), and adults 20 and older at 27% (77 cases). Alarmingly, 89% of all reported cases involved individuals who were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. Only 7% had received one dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, and just 4% had received both recommended doses.

This nationwide spread highlights the urgent need for continued public health efforts and widespread vaccination to prevent further outbreaks.

A Note from Burke County Public Health

“If you think you have been exposed to measles, it’s best to stay home and avoid public spaces until you’ve spoken with a healthcare professional. Measles can spread four days before any visible symptoms appear, so acting quickly is essential.” —Christine Helton, RN, Communicable Disease Nurse

Symptoms of Measles Include:

*High fever (often over 104°F or 40°C)

*Dry cough

*Runny nose

*Red, watery eyes

*Tiny white spots inside the mouth (called Koplik spots)

*A red, blotchy skin rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward

While some may recover without issues, measles can lead to severe complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. These complications can include pneumonia, brain inflammation, hearing loss, and in rare cases, death.

How to Prevent Measles in Your Family

Preventing measles doesn’t require anything fancy—just awareness, a little action, and a commitment to keeping your family healthy. Here are the key steps:

1. Get Vaccinated

Protect yourself and your loved ones with the MMR vaccine — your best defense against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. 

✅ Safe. ✅ Proven. ✅ Easily Available.

Kids need two doses: 

• First at 12–15 months

 • Second at 4–6 years

With 1 vaccine, a person is 93% protected, and with 2 vaccines, they are 97% protected from measles. Adults, not sure about your status? Planning to travel? Been exposed to an outbreak? Talk to your doctor today — prevention starts with awareness.

📍 Burke County Public Health is here for you. Get accurate info, vaccinations, and expert guidance you can trust. Have questions? Just ask. We’re here to help!

2. Stay on Top of Immunization Records

Keep a record of your family’s vaccinations. It’s essential for school, daycare, travel, or in case of local outbreaks.

3. Avoid Exposure During Outbreaks

If there's a measles outbreak in your area, try to avoid public places, especially with infants or anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated yet. Measles spreads easily in crowded settings.

4. Be Careful When Traveling

Measles is still common in many parts of the world. Before international travel, double-check that everyone in your family is fully vaccinated. Even one unvaccinated traveler can bring measles back to a community.

5. Act Fast If Exposed

If someone in your household develops symptoms or has been exposed to measles, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Avoid going directly to clinics or hospitals without calling first, as this can prevent further spread.

Measles may seem like an old threat, but it’s still here—and it’s serious. But it’s also one of the easiest diseases to prevent with proper vaccination and basic precautions. By making sure your family is protected, you’re not just keeping your loved ones safe—you’re also helping protect those who can’t get vaccinated, like newborns and people with certain health conditions.

Burke County Public Health: Your Partner in Protection

Burke County Public Health is dedicated to keeping you and your family safe, healthy, and well-informed. Whether you're scheduling routine immunizations, navigating an outbreak, or just looking for trustworthy health information, their experienced team is ready to support you every step of the way.

From newborns to seniors, we offer comprehensive vaccination services tailored to all ages and health needs.

Got questions about vaccine safety, schedules, or side effects? Our staff provides clear, compassionate answers, backed by the latest public health guidance.

Traveling abroad? Facing a local outbreak? They can help you understand the risks and get the right protection in time.

With a strong commitment to community wellness, Burke County Public Health is more than just a clinic — they’re a trusted resource and a lifeline for public health in our community.

Reach out today to learn more, book a vaccine appointment, or simply get your questions answered. Your health is their priority.

So take action, stay informed, and help keep measles out of your home and your community.

Stay healthy, stay protected. 💉✨