Measles: What Are the Symptoms and How to Protect Yourself

Measles has recently reentered the national conversation—and for good reason. As of April 10, 2025, the CDC has confirmed 712 cases of measles across 25 U.S. jurisdictions, including Florida, California, Texas, New York, and several other states. For many, measles may seem like a disease of the past, something almost forgotten thanks to decades of medical progress. But the numbers are telling a different story: it’s still very much around, and it can spread fast.

Understanding how measles spreads, what symptoms to look for, and how to take preventive action can help protect both individuals and communities. Whether you’re a parent, a traveler, or just someone trying to stay healthy, being informed is one of the most important tools in avoiding this contagious illness.

Why Measles Is a Growing Concern Again

Once considered nearly eliminated in the United States, measles has resurfaced due to a combination of international travel, pockets of lower community immunity, and increasing exposure in crowded settings. While 712 cases might not sound like a national emergency, measles spreads incredibly easily. In fact, it’s one of the most contagious viruses known—capable of infecting up to 90% of people who are exposed to it and not immune.

Even more concerning, the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. That means you don’t have to come into direct contact with someone who’s sick to get measles. You just have to be in the same room they were in recently.

What Exactly Is Measles?

Measles is a viral illness caused by the rubeola virus. It primarily affects the respiratory system and is transmitted through respiratory droplets. When someone with measles coughs, sneezes, or talks, the virus enters the air and can be inhaled by others nearby. The virus is highly contagious, with a basic reproduction number (R0) of 12 to 18—which means one person can potentially infect up to 18 others in a susceptible population. That’s significantly higher than most viruses, including seasonal flu and even COVID-19.

Once inside the body, the virus incubates silently for about 10 to 14 days. During this time, the person may not show any symptoms—but they can still spread the infection.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Recognizing the signs of measles early can help reduce the risk of further spread. Measles typically develops in stages, and the symptoms evolve over the course of several days.

Stage 1: The Early Symptoms

In the first few days, symptoms often mimic a bad cold or flu, which can make it tricky to recognize measles right away. Some of the most common early signs include:

• High fever (can spike to 104°F or higher)
• Runny nose
• Cough
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• Fatigue and loss of appetite

Stage 2: The Rash Appears

About three to five days after symptoms start, the characteristic measles rash begins to appear. This usually starts at the hairline and spreads downward to the face, neck, trunk, and eventually the limbs.

• The rash consists of flat red spots, often with raised bumps
• It can be itchy and may join together to form larger blotches
• As the rash spreads, the fever may climb even higher

Stage 3: Koplik Spots

These small white spots inside the cheeks—often described as “grains of salt on a red background”—are unique to measles and can help with diagnosis. They tend to appear just before the rash shows up and are a strong indicator of infection.

Complications: When Measles Becomes More Than a Rash

While many people recover from measles without serious issues, the virus can cause complications—especially in young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems.

Potential complications include:

• Ear infections – Common in children and can lead to permanent hearing loss
• Pneumonia – A leading cause of measles-related death in children
• Encephalitis – A rare but serious brain swelling that can cause convulsions, hearing loss, or cognitive damage
• Severe diarrhea – Can lead to dehydration, especially dangerous in young children

For every 1,000 children who get measles, about 1 to 2 may die from complications. While this statistic may seem small, it becomes alarming when outbreaks begin to grow in size and intensity.

How Measles Spreads So Easily

Understanding how measles spreads is key to breaking the chain of transmission. The virus is airborne, and that gives it a major advantage. It can remain active in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after a person has coughed or sneezed. That means someone can walk into a room long after an infected individual has left—and still be exposed.

Most common transmission settings include:

• Schools and daycares
• Airports and public transportation
• Crowded indoor events or public gatherings
• Healthcare settings, especially waiting rooms

This is why outbreaks tend to grow rapidly in densely populated areas or during travel-heavy seasons.

Protection and Prevention: What You Can Do

There are several ways to reduce your risk of getting measles and limit the spread within your community. While vaccination remains the most discussed preventive measure, it’s important to look at the full picture of protection strategies.

Common preventive steps include:

• Stay home when sick – If you or your child has a fever and a rash, don’t assume it’s just a virus. Avoid school, daycare, or work until symptoms are evaluated.
• Practice good hygiene – Frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding face-touching can all help limit the spread of respiratory illnesses.
• Be mindful when traveling – If traveling to a region with known outbreaks, check for local health advisories and ensure your personal health records are up to date.
• Consult your healthcare provider – If you’re unsure about your immunity status or your child’s, a blood test can confirm whether you’re protected.

There are different viewpoints surrounding vaccines, and every family makes health decisions in a way that aligns with their values. Whatever your perspective, staying informed, alert, and proactive about symptoms and exposures is something we can all agree on.

Recent Outbreaks: A Nationwide Reminder

The recent rise in measles cases has affected 25 states as of April 10, 2025, including many with large urban centers. These states include Florida, California, Texas, New York, Michigan, Ohio, and others—signaling just how widespread the virus can become in a short time.

What this means is that even those who don’t live in outbreak areas may still come into contact with the virus through travel, public events, or school exposure. Being aware of the risk—especially in places where you may not expect it—is an essential part of protecting your health.

Find Your Nearest Support: TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track

If you suspect you have measles, your first step should be to contact your healthcare provider. They can advise you on the best course of action, which may include scheduling a visit or recommending a home visit to prevent spreading the illness. If you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, you should go to the emergency room.

For general illnesses or injuries that aren’t life-threatening, TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track offers convenient, accessible care at over 20 locations throughout the Greater Tampa Area. With extended hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, and our Save My Spot e-Check-In system, patients can reduce their wait time and get the care they need—fast.