Measles

Measles cases are on the rise in the U.S. and in the region. 

CDC is reporting a higher number of U.S. measles cases in 2024 compared to all of 2023. Many countries and travel destinations are experiencing measles outbreaks. Most cases reported in 2024 have been among children aged 12 months and older who had not been vaccinated against measles. Many cases have been linked to international travel. 

Talk to your provider to make sure you and your family are vaccinated against measles—especially if you plan to travel outside the U.S. 

• Track current measles cases in the U.S. (CDC

• Track the New Hampshire measles outbreak (New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services)

About Measles

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases. This respiratory virus lives in an infected person's nose and throat mucus and can spread to others through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms usually start with a high fever, then a cough, runny nose, and red and watery eyes. A rash (warning: contains graphic medical images) usually appears three to five days after the first symptoms. Babies, young children, and people with weak immune systems are at higher risk of getting very sick from measles.

Measles is almost entirely preventable with vaccines. While most people in the U.S. and Vermont are vaccinated against measles, communities with lower vaccine coverage are at higher risk for outbreaks. In 2024, Vermont had its first confirmed case of measles since 2018. Measles is common in some countries, so it's important to be protected against measles before traveling internationally.

Learn more about measles (CDC)

Vaccines

Measles vaccines are safe and highly effective. It is part of the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine or "MMR." Two vaccine doses are 97% effective against measles (one dose is 93% effective). Most parents in Vermont (93%) vaccinate their children against measles before entering kindergarten at public or independent schools but it takes 95% to reach community immunity. 

Review your and your family’s vaccination records or talk to your doctor to make sure you are well protected against measles. This is especially important before your children start day care, school or college and before traveling outside of the U.S.

Learn more about the vaccine (CDC)

When to Get Vaccinated

Babies and Young Children

Children should get two doses of MMR vaccine. In Vermont, MMR vaccination is required before children enter child care (depending on age) or start kindergarten.

• The first dose is given at 12 to 15 months of age
• The second dose is given at 4 through 6 years of age. 
• Infants 6 to 11 months old who are traveling internationally should get an early dose of the MMR vaccine at least two weeks before travel. 

More on measles vaccines for children (CDC) 

Teens and Adults

You are protected from measles if:

• You were born before 1957 or
• You have laboratory-confirmed evidence of immunity to measles or

• You have documentation of measles vaccination. Look for “MMR” or "MMRV" in your vaccination records. If you do not have your vaccination records, the Vermont Immunization Registry (IMR) can give you a copy of your vaccination record by mail (within a week) or secure email (within two business days). Instructions on how to request vaccine records

Talk to your doctor if you are unsure if you are protected against measles. They may recommend getting a measles vaccine—especially if you are planning to travel outside of the U.S.

Learn more about the measles vaccine (CDC)

How to Get Vaccinated

Measles vaccines are free in Vermont. Call your health care provider to get vaccinated. If you do not have a health care provider, call 2-1-1 to be connected to care, or contact the nearest federally qualified health center or one of Vermont's Free & Referral Clinics.

• For most people, their health insurance will cover the cost of getting vaccinated. 
• For people who do not have health insurance, or who have insurance that does not cover the cost of vaccines (less common), the Vermont Immunization Program can cover the cost of the vaccine directly to the provider. 
  • Health care providers can charge a small fee to give the vaccine. 
  • Talk to your doctor before getting vaccinated to find out how much it may cost. Some practices offer a sliding scale.
• If you do not have health insurance and are under the age of 65, you can also make an appointment at your Local Health Office to get vaccinated. Local health offices do not charge a fee for giving the vaccine.

Treatment

There is no treatment for measles. People with measles need bed rest, fluids, and medication to control their fevers. They may also need medical care for complications or serious illness.