What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes.  Anyone who is vaccinated is much less likely to get measles.

Symptoms
  • The first symptoms of measles typically appear 7-14 days after infection:
    • High Fever (may spike above 104°)
    • Cough
    • Runny Nose
    • Red, watery eyes
  • 3-5 days after symptoms begin:
    • Measles rash appears on the face before spreading down the body. Tiny white or red spots, called Koplik spots, may appear inside the mouth.
Risk

Risk of infection

  • Anyone at the same location as a person with measles is at risk of infection, including for up to two hours after the person with measles has left the location.
  • Anyone who is not vaccinated is much more likely to get measles.
  • Multiple counties in North Carolina have reported cases.

Risks of severe illness

  • Anyone infected can develop mild or severe illness, but the risk is higher for:
    • Unvaccinated individuals
    • Children younger than 5 years of age
    • Adults older than 20 years of age
    • Pregnant women
    • People with a weakened immune system, including those taking certain medications for cancers, autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, or to prevent transplant rejection.
Preventing Measles

The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine is a very safe and effective method for preventing measles.  There is no proven alternative to the MMR Vaccine for preventing measles. The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is a very safe and effective two-dose vaccine, though women who are pregnant, or people who are immune suppressed should not receive it or should delay vaccination. Speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best option for you.  One dose of the MMR Vaccine is 93% effective against measles, while two doses is greater than 97% effective.

Unvaccinated students who wish to learn more about or receive an MMR vaccine can schedule a nurse visit at Duke Student Health by calling (919) 681-9355.

When to Seek Medical Care
  • If you think you may have been exposed to measles, contact your primary healthcare provider immediately and tell them about your concern. They will take the appropriate precautions. Exposure can occur without being close to the individual and symptoms can take up to two weeks to appear.
  • If you are experiencing symptoms, do not walk into your doctor's office or emergency room without notifying them, as measles is highly contagious. Call ahead to let them know why you want to be seen and follow their instructions.
    • Any Student with symptoms should:
      • Begin wearing a mask immediately and call Duke Student Health at (919) 681-9355, option 2 to receive nurse advice.
      • Do not go to class and do not go to a healthcare facility without calling ahead first.
    • Faculty and Staff with symptoms should:
      • Begin wearing a mask immediately and call the EOHW exposure hotline at (919) 385-0429, option 1 for assessment and next steps. For urgent after-hours concerns, contact the EOHW on-call nurse at (919) 684-8115.
Treatment

There are no specific antiviral medicines for Measles. Most people can be safely managed and recover at home. Antibiotics are not effective. Care is supportive:

  • Mild illness:
    • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fever, pain, and headache
    • Rest and fluids
  • Severe illness:
    • Hospitalization for supportive care
    • Intravenous fluids
    • Pain management
    • Nursing support and monitoring
Additional Resources