Measles FAQ

Key Takeaways:

• Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause respiratory illness, fever, and rase. Some severe cases can result in death.
• Those who have been exposed should contact their healthcare provider or clinic prior to seeking treatment.
• The most effective way to prevent the spread of measles is through the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

In July, a Barbour County resident became the first person diagnosed with measles in West Virginia since April 2024.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that as of Aug. 6, there have been 2,465 confirmed cases across the country – up from 2,289 confirmed in all of 2025.

Of those cases, the majority – more than 40 percent – have been in children ages 5-19 years old, and more than 90 percent were in those who had not received a measles vaccination. 

In this blog, we’re going to answer some frequently asked measles questions, so you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

What is measles?
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses known and can cause a respiratory illness associated with a fever and a characteristic rash. Although many people do recover, measles can be associated with pneumonia, brain inflammation, hospitalization, and in rare cases, death.

How is it spread?
Measles will spread from person to person through the air when an infected person coughs, talks, or even breathes. It is so infectious that it can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone leaves a room, making it exceptionally easy to catch.

What is the typical length of time between exposure and symptom onset?
Most people develop symptoms typically seven to 14 days after being exposed to the virus.

How is measles diagnosed?
Healthcare providers often suspect measles based on symptoms and especially exposure history, but it’s confirmed through laboratory testing. Laboratory testing typically includes swabs from the nose or throat and blood testing to test for antibodies.

How is it treated?
There’s no specific antiviral treatment for measles. The hallmark of therapy is providing supportive care, preventing complications, and watching for development of symptoms.
In certain severe cases, healthcare providers may recommend additional treatments in a supervised setting.

How long does it last?
The illness generally runs its course over a two-to-three-week period. The classic rash typically will fade after five-to-six days.

What should I do if I think I’ve been exposed to measles?
If you think you’ve been exposed to the measles virus, it’s important to know your vaccination history and contact your healthcare provider prior to being seen in a clinic, urgent care, or emergency department setting because you don’t want to expose other individuals.

When should I seek medical attention?
It’s important to seek medical attention after exposure to measles, especially with symptoms such as fever and rash. Once again, it’s super important to call your healthcare provider or the medical facility prior to presentation because we don’t want to expose other individuals to the measles virus.

What’s the best way to stop the spread of measles?
The single most effective intervention for preventing measles is the vaccination through the measles, mumps, and rubella, or MMR, vaccination. It’s important because it also protects those who cannot be vaccinated.

I recommend talking with your healthcare provider if you have any specific questions regarding the MMR vaccine.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure
Measles can spread incredibly fast but so can prevention. Knowing your vaccine status as well as calling your medical provider prior to seeking care after exposure can prevent the next measles case from becoming the next measles outbreak.

For more information about measles, visit CDC.gov/Measles.