We also want parents to be aware that measles is an illness that still exists and they need to protect their children by making sure they have all their shots. Measles is highly contagious and is transmitted through the air. It usually begins with a cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and fever. These symptoms are followed by a red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles is very contagious, and dropping in on doctors' offices or emergency rooms can expose dozens of other patients.
Persons are no longer contagious four days after the rash has appeared.
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. Health-care providers who suspect measles in a patient should report the suspected case to the patient's local health department right away, according to Wasserman. This is the first outbreak in Oregon since 1999, when nine persons were infected.