WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MEASLES ? The most recognizable measles symptom is a very high fever accompanied by a red or brownish blotchy rash , although this is not the only symptom .
Before the rash appears , children with measles develop cold-like symptoms including :
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Fever
• Red , watery eyes
These symptoms tend to get worse during the first one to three days of the illness .
HOW DO YOU PREVENT THE SPREAD OF MEASLES ? Measles is a vaccine-preventable infection . About 95 of every 100 people will be protected after getting one dose of the MMR vaccine . Two doses of MMR vaccine protect 97-99 of every 100 people .
To avoid the disease , immunize according to the recommended schedule – when a child is 12-15 months of age and again when they are 4-6 years old . Some children at higher risk may need three doses if there is a disease outbreak .
WHAT IF MY BABY IS TOO YOUNG FOR THE MEASLES VACCINE ? High immunization rates in a community protect those who are too young to be vaccinated , including infants under 12 months of age . Infants are at the highest risk of serious illness , hospitalization and death due to measles .
Infants ages 6-12 months old can get a measles vaccine during an outbreak or before international travel to a location with an active measles outbreak .
I ’ M NOT SURE IF I ’ VE RECEIVED MEASLES VACCINE . DO I NEED A BOOSTER ?
If you are not sure if you or your children have been fully vaccinated against measles , talk with your doctor to see if anyone in your family needs to be vaccinated . There is no risk in receiving the measles vaccine if you have been immunized before . Measles is a live vaccine , so children with immune problems or who are receiving medications that suppress the immune system should not receive the measles vaccine . Your pediatrician is your best source of advice on vaccinations .
REMEMBER :
Children who are vaccinated with MMR develop lasting immunity and protect others . When most of us have immunity to measles , it is less likely to spread . If you think that your child has been exposed to measles , call your pediatrician right away .
Vaccinations are available through the Arkansas Department of Health ’ s local county health clinics . Call for an appointment .
WASHINGTON COUNTY HEALTH UNIT
3270 Wimberly Drive , Fayetteville 479-521-8181
BENTON COUNTY HEALTH UNIT – ROGERS
1200 W . Walnut St ., Suite 2200 , Rogers 479-986-1300
BENTON COUNTY HEALTH UNIT – SILOAM SPRINGS
101 W . University St ., Siloam Springs 479-549-3790
HEALTHY KIDS ISSUE | APRIL 2025 9 OURHEALTHNWA . COM