How contagious is measles and how is it spread?

Dear Reader,

It’s unfortunate that measles might be weaseling its way back into your life! Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases. Previous infection of German measles (also known as Rubella) won’t protect you from contracting measles. However, you might be surprised to learn that most people vaccinated against German measles are also vaccinated against measles due to the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine being designed to protect against all three. Whether or not you’re already vaccinated, the good news is that you’re taking the right steps by putting your health first.

Are measles and German measles the same?

Though they’re easy to mix up, measles and its German counterpart aren’t the same disease. German measles, also known as Rubella, is caused by a different virus than measles. While both are caused by a viral infection and have similar symptoms, measles is more contagious and can lead to severe complications. Some of these complications can include blindness, ear infection, and even death if left untreated. 

How contagious is measles and how does it spread? 

In many parts of the world, measles was declared eliminated due to successful vaccination efforts, however, there has been recent reappearance in outbreaks. Often low vaccination rates in some regions and cases brought in from outside the country from which they are found and reported contribute to local outbreaks. 

While both German measles and measles occur more often in childhood, it’s still possible to be infected later in life. While a previous infection of German measles may help protect you from getting the same disease again, you won’t be protected from a future measles infection. Due to its high transmission, 90 percent of exposed people who are unvaccinated or lack immunity can be infected. The virus spreads through contact with infected people—mainly in the forms of coughing or sneezing—as well as shared air or surfaces. Infected droplets can linger for several hours. 

What are the signs and symptoms of measles? 

The most widely recognized symptom of measles is a rash, which can cover the whole body. Measles also causes symptoms like those of the flu or the common cold—such as a fever, cough, or runny nose. If left untreated, the virus can be deadly. 

How can you prevent measles infection from occurring or reoccurring? 

Some measures that may help prevent infection include washing your hands often, disinfecting shared surfaces, and wearing a mask in common spaces when around infected or possibly infected people. In addition to these at-home prevention methods, it’s recommended that you get vaccinated.   

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the first dose of MMR be given between 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose between four to six years old. If you were vaccinated with the MMR vaccine after you were infected with German measles as a child, you may already be protected against measles in adulthood. Although CDC recommends the vaccine for most people, it may still be beneficial to consult with a health care provider first before getting the vaccine. This can be especially important if you have a history of severe allergies to vaccine components, are pregnant, or have a weakened immune system. 

Additionally, if you’re unsure whether or not you’ve already received the vaccine, consider speaking with a health care provider to find out whether getting vaccinated is right for you. 

Hope you’re able to weasel your way out of getting the measles!