Measles (Rubeola)

Locate your vaccination records or other evidence of immunity. You're unlikely to get measles if you've gotten the MMR vaccine or have other evidence of immunity.

If you are not immune:

• Contact your health care provider. Call first to set an appointment and inform them of your exposure. They'll take steps to protect you and others.
• Your doctor may recommend:
  • The MMR vaccine, or
  • A medicine called immune globulin to reduce risk.
• Stay home for 21 days after exposure to measles. 

You may hear from us or your local health department. What to expect during public health outreach for infectious diseases.

You're considered immune to measles if you were born before 1957, or you have:

• Written documentation of vaccines for measles,
• Laboratory evidence of immunity (such as a positive antibody test), or
• Laboratory confirmation of measles.

Many people get vaccinated as a child to go to child care or school. North Carolina requires measles vaccination for these settings. More about NC school requirements and exemptions.

Yes, but getting measles if you've been vaccinated is rare. If this happens, symptoms are usually milder.

One dose of MMR vaccine is about 93% effective at preventing measles. Two doses are about 97% effective.

Vitamin A cannot prevent measles. The MMR vaccine is the best way to protect against measles. 

Only take vitamin A when directed by a health care provider. Providers may give vitamin A to some people diagnosed with measles as part of their care plan.

About Vitamin A

• Most people get enough vitamin A in their diet through foods like:
  • Vegetables like carrots, bell peppers and broccoli
  • Fish and chicken
  • Yogurt
• You can take too much vitamin A, known as toxicity, since it builds up in the body over time. In pregnancy, vitamin A toxicity can cause birth defects. 

Symptoms of vitamin A toxicity

• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache

Measles typically starts with cough, runny nose, and red eyes. It often leads to a rash and fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit. If you think you have measles, get medical care.

Don't delay: Symptoms can get worse over time, leading to complications and even death.

Seek emergency medical care immediately if you have any of these signs:

• A hard time breathing or breathing faster than normal
• Signs of severe dehydration (dry nose and mouth, urinating less than usual)
• Confusion, decreased alertness, or severe weakness

For young children:

• A blue color around the mouth
• Crying without making tears
• Unusually low energy
• Severe loss of appetite

In the event of an emergency, call 911.

Alert your care team to protect others

Have someone call the emergency room or your provider. Let them know a person with measles is coming in so they can prepare and take steps to protect you and others.