Measles and the MMR Vaccine

In the past few months, the measles outbreak has raised many concerns for families. Measles is a serious and highly contagious illness that can be dangerous for children. The infection is caused by a virus that spreads through the air, especially when someone coughs or sneezes, and through direct contact with an infected person. The virus can stay active in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. It can also travel through air currents so that even if you're not in the same room as an infected person, you can still catch the virus. 

Being able to recognize the symptoms and protect your family is essential as the outbreak continues to grow. Even if your child's exposure to the virus is brief, they would still be at risk. Those who have health conditions that cause a compromised immune system are at greater risk of becoming ill. People are contagious before symptoms arise and then for up to four days after the rash appears.  That means your child could be exposed before you realize someone around them is sick. Symptoms typically appear 8 to 12 days after exposure. Common signs include a high fever, red and watery eyes, cough, runny nose, and a full-body rash that can last more than a week. Some children may also develop white spots inside the mouth called Koplik spots. Diarrhea and ear infections are also common.

Furthermore, measles can weaken the immune system, especially in babies, children, and pregnant people.  It can also lead to serious complications such as hearing loss from ear infections, pneumonia, and swelling of the brain, which can result in seizures and brain damage. 

The most effective way to protect children from measles is the MMR vaccine, which protects children against measles, mumps, and rubella. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children get their first dose between 12–15 months old and a second dose between ages 4–6. In some cases, such as during a local outbreak or travel to a known high-risk area, your child may need the vaccine sooner than 12 months (and then will still require the 2 doses discussed above). The MMR vaccine is safe and effective and provides long-term immunity. Side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as a low-grade fever or minor rash. Despite the persistent myth, there have been many, many studies conclusively proving the MMR vaccine does not cause autism.

Many parents wonder about vitamin A and whether it helps protect against measles - it does NOT. While vitamin A won’t prevent measles, it may lessen the severity of the illness once a child is infected. That’s because measles can lead to a drop in vitamin A levels. If your child does get measles, your pediatrician may recommend two doses of vitamin A given 24 hours apart to support recovery. However, giving large amounts of vitamin A as a preventive measure is not recommended as too much vitamin A can cause side effects such as nausea, vision problems, liver damage, or even a coma. Most children get enough vitamin A through their regular diet or, for babies, through breast milk or formula. If you’re unsure whether your child needs a supplement, talk to your pediatrician.

For babies under one-year-old or who are too young to be fully vaccinated (2 doses), it's important to avoid crowded public spaces and anyone who might be sick during a measles outbreak.

If you believe your child has been exposed to measles or if you're unsure about their vaccination status, contact our office. We’re here to answer your questions and help keep your family protected. To schedule a vaccine appointment, give us a call.