Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, largely because of widespread vaccination. However, cases have been rising in recent years as vaccination rates have declined in some communities — both here and nationally.

Measles outbreaks have been occurring across the United States and in Pennsylvania, and as the region's academic health system, we want to make sure our patients and community have the information they need to stay safe.

Measles is the most contagious infection people can get. It spreads in two main ways:

• Through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes
• By touching a contaminated surface and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes

The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area. If 100 unvaccinated people were in a room with someone who has measles, about 90 of them would contract the virus.

A person with measles is contagious for about four days before the rash appears and up to four days after — meaning people often do not know they are spreading the illness.

Symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and typically begin with:

• Fever (100.4°F or higher), which can spike to 104°F or more
• Persistent cough
• Runny nose
• Red and/or watery eyes
• A rash — typically beginning on the face and spreading down the body, appearing 3 to 5 days after other symptoms begin

Measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and brain swelling (encephalitis) that can lead to convulsions or long-term disabilities. About one in four people who contract measles will be hospitalized and one or two in 1,000 will die.

Anyone who is not fully vaccinated against measles is at risk. Specifically, those most vulnerable include:

• Unvaccinated individuals of any age
• Infants under 12 months and other young children who have not received two doses of the MMR vaccine
• People with weakened immune systems
• Pregnant women

If you are not sure whether you are protected, check your vaccination records or speak with your Penn State Health physician.

You are generally considered immune to measles if you:

• Were born before 1957 (most people born before that year were exposed to measles naturally)
• Have had measles confirmed by a physician in the past
• Have received two documented doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine

If you are unsure of your vaccination history, check your medical records, contact your primary care provider or review your immunization history in your Penn State Health patient portal. Your physician can also order a blood test to confirm whether you are immune.

If you develop symptoms that may be consistent with measles — particularly a high fever with cough, runny nose, watery eyes and/or a rash — call your Penn State Health physician for guidance.

Early identification is important both for your care and for the safety of other patients. Our team will guide you on the appropriate next steps, which may include testing and, if needed, clinical evaluation in an appropriate setting.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

Penn State Health has taken a number of steps in response to measles activity in the region:

• Signage posted at Penn State Health facilities will alert patients who may have been exposed to measles to wear a mask before entering
• Clinical staff are trained to identify symptoms quickly and isolate patients showing signs of measles in accordance with infection prevention protocols
• We are following all guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health
• Our physicians are available to discuss your individual risk, answer your questions and provide guidance appropriate to your personal health history

Penn State Health is committed to being a trusted source of medically accurate information for our patients and community.

The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is one of the most rigorously studied vaccines available. Two doses provide approximately 97% lifetime protection against measles, making it among the most effective vaccines in the history of modern medicine.

The CDC recommends children receive the first MMR dose between 12 and 15 months of age and the second dose between 4 and 6 years. During an outbreak, the MMR vaccine can be safely given to infants six months old and older. Adults who are unsure of their status may also receive the vaccine.

Your Penn State Health physician is your best source for trusted health information. They know your health history and can provide guidance specific to you and your family — without judgment.

Yes. Penn State Health cares for patients of all backgrounds, beliefs and vaccination status — without judgment. Our role is to support your health and provide you with the most accurate medical information available so you can make informed decisions for yourself and your family.

We do ask that all patients who have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms follow the protocols described above — calling ahead before coming in and wearing a mask — to protect other patients who may be vulnerable.

Your Penn State Health care team is your most trusted resource. You can also find additional information through the following:

• Penn State Health: Find a Doctor
• Penn State Health Patient Portal
• Penn State Health: Make an appointment
• Pennsylvania Department of Health Measles Information
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Measles Information

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.