Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable viral illness. It presents with fever, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, and a maculopapular rash that typically begins on the face and spreads downward. Complications can include diarrhea, otitis media, pneumonia (about 30% of recent Oregon cases required hospitalization), and more serious outcomes such as encephalitis or death. Infants, pregnant patients, immunocompromised individuals, and older adults are at higher risk. Measles spreads easily in healthcare settings, so early recognition and isolation are critical.
Prevention/Vaccination
Measles is best prevented with 2 doses of MMR (or MMRV).
- Dose 1: 12–15 months (doses given before 12 months do not count toward the routine series)
- Dose 2: 4–6 years
- Minimum interval between doses: 28 days
Per the Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (CDC Pink Book), the second dose may be given as soon as 28 days after the first. Children who received 2 valid doses (≥28 days apart, first dose after 12 months of age) do not need an additional dose at school entry.
