AJE wants to inform families about the measles virus and share important vaccination resources for our D.C. families to help protect themselves and their loved ones. Please read below for more information.

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the measles virus, which spreads through direct person-to-person contact and respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours, meaning that even entering a room where an infected person was earlier can result in transmission. It can also travel through air currents, infecting people in adjacent spaces.

While measles is a vaccine-preventable illness, it can lead to serious and sometimes fatal complications. Common signs of infection include a high fever and rash, with the rash typically appearing 3 to 5 days after the first symptoms, starting on the head and spreading downward. Additional symptoms may include:

• Cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes
• Small white spots inside the cheeks (Koplik spots)
• Diarrhea
• Ear infections

To protect children from measles, leading health organizations—including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Academy of Family Physicians—recommend the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The first dose should be given between 12 to 15 months of age, with a second dose between 4 to 6 years. However, the second dose can be given earlier, as long as it is at least 28 days after the first dose.

Beyond vaccination, practicing good hand hygiene is essential in preventing the spread of germs. Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available. Encourage those around your child to do the same.

Families in Washington, D.C., can access additional immunizations for both children and adults by visiting DC Health’s Immunization Program. Protect your loved ones and your community—stay informed, stay vaccinated, and stay safe.

All information in this blog post is sourced from HealthyChildren.org, a website by the American Academy of Pediatrics. For more details, visit: HealthyChildren.org