Measles
The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) has confirmed a growing number of measles cases in Chicago. The majority of residents in Chicago and Cook County are vaccinated with the Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine and are not at risk. Visit CPDH for the latest news and updates.
Individuals vaccinated with the MMR vaccine, including infants and young children, are at extremely low risk for contracting measles, even with exposure. If you are vaccinated for measles, do not go to a local emergency room for testing. Please call your medical provider if you have questions or concerns.
If a patient arrives to UI Health and is suspected to have measles, we are taking important steps to prevent the potential spread of infection and inform local public health authorities.
What is Measles
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus, transmitted by direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles virus can remain infectious on surfaces and in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves an area. Typically, measles starts with a fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and sore throat, and is followed by a rash that spreads all over the body. The symptoms of measles generally appear 7–14 days after a person is exposed; however, the incubation period ranges from 7–21 days. Patients are considered to be contagious from 4 days before to 4 days after the rash appears.
Immunocompromised patients may not exhibit rash or may exhibit an atypical rash. Photos of a patient’s rash may be helpful in determining if it is characteristic of measles.
For more information, visit CDC: Photos of Measles & People with Measles
How is Measles Transmitted
Measles is transmitted by direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles virus can remain infectious on surfaces and in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves an area. If other people breathe the contaminated air or touch the infected surface, then touch their eyes, noses, or mouths, they can become infected. Measles is highly contagious. Animals do not get or spread measles.
Signs & Symptoms of Measles
The symptoms typically begin with:
- High fever (may spike to more than 104 F)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Sore throat
Initial symptoms are followed by a rash begins with the head and neck and spreads downward all over the body.
Symptoms of measles generally appear 7–14 days after a person is exposed; however, the incubation period ranges from 7–21 days. Patients are considered to be contagious from 4 days before to 4 days after the rash appears.
Measles Testing
Testing for measles is done with a PCR test (oral or nasal swab). Individuals must meet clinical criteria for measles in order to be tested.
Measles Treatment
Individuals with measles can receive medical care to help relieve symptoms and address complications such as bacterial infections. There is no specific antiviral therapy for measles. Severe measles cases among children, such as those who are hospitalized, may be treated with vitamin A.
Measles Vaccine
Measles can be prevented with the MMR vaccine, which protects against three diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. The MMR vaccine is a safe, highly-effective vaccine that is given in childhood and is a requirement for school enrollments. If you or a family member do not have the MMR vaccine and would like to receive it, call 866.600.2273 or visit a UI Health location.
FAQ
For more information, visit CDC: Questions About Measles
