What is measles, and how does it spread?

Measles is a very contagious disease caused by a virus. It can lead to hospitalization.
Measles spreads through the air when someone who has it breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
You can get measles just by being in the same room as an infected person.

If you have never had the disease or received the measles vaccines (MMR or measles-mumps-rubella vaccine) you are at risk of developing measles.
Those who are pregnant or immunocompromised have a higher risk of severe illness if they get measles.

Check your immunization status
- The MMR vaccine is very good at preventing measles and is the best way to protect yourself from measles.
  - Two doses of measles vaccine are 97% (range: 67% to 100%) effective at preventing measles. One dose is 93% (range: 39% to 100%) effective at preventing measles.
- If you are not sure if you have had the measles vaccine, contact your doctor or clinic.
Watch for symptoms
- Fever, rash, cough, runny nose, and red eyes.
- If you develop these symptoms call your doctor right away.
- We are seeing an increase in measles cases in Montana, the United States, and in other countries.
- Watch for symptoms of measles when you travel, especially if you are not vaccinated or immune to measles.