Measles is still occurring globally and is a highly contagious viral disease. People who are unvaccinated, especially children and those with weakened immune systems, are at the greatest risk. Symptoms may appear 7 to 14 days after exposure to the measles virus, and an infected person can spread the virus from 4 days before to 4 days after the rash appears. Unvaccinated travelers are at risk of infection and should complete their vaccinations to protect themselves and others around them.
What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the measles virus. It can spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or through direct contact. The virus can be transmitted through airborne droplets or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.Symptoms: Early symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). After 3 to 5 days, a red rash appears, starting on the face and spreading throughout the body.
Complications: In severe cases, measles can lead to complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis. Children under 5 years of age, adults over 30, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.
How Can Travelers Protect Themselves and Others from Measles?
Vaccination: Travelers should ensure that all children aged 1 year and older have received the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Infants aged 6 to 11 months should receive one dose of the MMR vaccine before travel. Adults should also check that they have had two doses of the MMR vaccine. If unvaccinated, they should get vaccinated before traveling.Monitor Symptoms: If travelers develop symptoms such as fever or rash within 21 days of travel, they should immediately visit a healthcare facility, inform them of the possibility of measles, and get diagnosed.
Hygiene Practices: Travelers should cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and wash hands frequently. They should avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
What Can Clinicians Do?
Evaluate Patients and Check Vaccination Records: Clinicians should carefully evaluate patients for measles symptoms and verify their vaccination records.Prevention and Control: If a patient is suspected of having measles, appropriate isolation and preventive measures should be taken to prevent the spread of infection.
Reporting and Education: Measles cases should be reported to public health authorities immediately. Clinicians should also provide education on measles prevention and management to patients and communities.
For more detailed information, including additional Traveler Information and Clinician Information, please visit the CDC website.
Related link : U.S. Measles cases in 2024
