Measles: What Parents Need to Know

As a parent, few things are scarier than a sick child. Measles cases are rising across the country, so understanding how it spreads, how to prevent it, and what to do if your child is exposed can help you feel prepared in protecting your family.

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through the air and direct contact. Vaccination is the best defense against infection. While it is not a seasonal virus, measles is often spread over times of high travel or in situations where unvaccinated persons are in close quarters. Individuals can spread the virus:

• Up to 4 days before the rash appears.
• Through 4 days after the rash develops.

What are the symptoms of measles?

Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after a measles infection. If your child experiences the following, seek medical advice as soon as possible:

• Rash starting on the face and spreading downward
• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes

If you suspect measles, please call our office before coming in or booking an appointment online. This allows us to take appropriate precautions and help protect other patients and families. Seek immediate care if symptoms worsen or include difficulty breathing, dehydration, or confusion.

Vaccination remains the best protection

The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe, highly effective, and an important part of protecting both your child and our broader community.

Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine:

• First dose: 12 to 15 months.
• Second dose: 4 to 6 years.

Infants 6 to 12 months should receive an early dose before international travel. Older children, adolescents, and adults who are not vaccinated or unsure of their status also need one or two doses if they don’t have evidence of immunity.

What can I do to help protect my family?

• Check your child’s immunization records and schedule an appointment if needed.
• Wash hands frequently and avoid close contact with sick individuals.
• Stay informed on the latest local updates on the Texas Health and Human Services website.

Our commitment to families

We are committed to helping families stay healthy through both preventive care and timely sick care. We are here to have open conversations and partner with your family to make informed decisions about childhood vaccinations. Staying current with vaccinations not only protects your child but also helps safeguard infants, immunocompromised children, and other vulnerable members of our community. If you are unsure whether your child is up to date on vaccines, our providers are happy to review your child’s immunization records and discuss any questions or concerns.

If you have questions or would like to schedule a well visit, vaccine review, or sick visit, please give us a call.