Since measles is very contagious, we advise those who suspect they may have measles to call ahead to arrange an appointment where other patients will not be exposed, Shiferaw advised. Dropping in on doctors offices or emergency rooms can expose dozens of other patients. Measles is highly contagious and is transmitted by airborne spread. The illness typically begins with a cough, runny nose, red eyes, and fever. These symptoms are followed by a red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
Persons are contagious for up to four days after the rash has appeared.
The best prevention against measles is to be fully vaccinated. Adults born during or after 1957 who have not had measles or aren t sure if they have had measles should receive one dose of measles vaccine. College students and children one year of age and older should receive two doses of measles vaccine, given at least one month apart. Adults born before 1957 have probably already had measles and are presumed to be immune, according to Shiferaw. Health-care workers are at higher risk and should get two doses of measles vaccine unless they have documentation of vaccine or history of measles.