Measles is one of the world's most highly contagious viral diseases. For years, measles has been rare in the United States, thanks to immunization. But recently, that has changed. With the number of measles cases on the rise, it is vital for parents and caregivers to be well informed on ways they can protect their children.
Precautions for international travel:
Immunizations against diseases such as measles are especially important when your family travels internationally. Even though endemic (widespread outbreak) measles was eliminated from the U.S. in 2000, travelers returning from or visiting from other countries have been linked to most of the cases of measles reported in the US. Because outbreaks do occur, it is important for your child to be fully immunized and protected.
What parents should know:
- Be sure your child’s immunizations are up-to-date. Children should get 2 doses of the MMR vaccine:
- First Dose: 12-15 months of age
- Second Dose: 4-6 years of age (may be given earlier, if at least 28 days after the 1st dose)
- The measles virus can stay in the air for up to 2 hours after a person with measles has left.
- Measles is contagious for 4 days before a rash develops until 4 days after it goes away.
- Tell your pediatrician if you are planning to travel outside the country--including Europe. Some infants younger than 12 months should get a dose of MMR if they are traveling out of the country. (This dose will not count toward their routine series.)
- Infants are at risk for measles before they get their first MMR shot. A few toddlers and preschoolers are still at risk for measles because they are only partially immune after they get their first MMR shot (until they get their booster dose). Parents can protect their children by asking if the people they will be visiting have been vaccinated.
- Keep your child away from other children who have a high fever and/or rash.
- Call your pediatrician immediately if you think your child has been exposed to measles.
For more information:
Visit the CDC’s Measles website for lots of useful information, including: