Measles, one of the world’s most contagious viruses, has been making headlines after an unvaccinated child died during an outbreak in the US. More than 150 people have been affected, with cases continuing to rise in Texas and spreading to nine other states. Meanwhile, across Europe, over 16,500 measles cases were reported in 2024, with tragic fatalities in Romania and Ireland.
As the virus resurfaces globally, it’s essential to understand what measles is, how it spreads, and most importantly, how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Here’s what you need to know:
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus that is airborne, meaning it spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes, or coughs. It most commonly affects children but can be contracted by anyone who is not vaccinated.
“On average, one infected person can spread the virus to about 15 other people,” says Scott Weaver, Director of the Center of Excellence for the Global Virus Network. “This makes measles one of the most contagious viruses in existence.”
The infection typically begins with symptoms like a high fever, runny nose, cough, red, watery eyes, and a rash. The rash usually appears a few days after the first symptoms, beginning on the face and spreading down the body. If left untreated, the fever may soar over 104°F (40°C).
While measles does not have a specific treatment, doctors focus on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications. The virus can lead to severe health issues, such as pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), or even death, particularly in children. Pregnant women who are unvaccinated may face the risk of premature delivery or low-birthweight babies.
Though it is rare, measles can be fatal, especially in children. Complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis contribute to the risks, with one in every 1,000 children suffering from severe brain inflammation. The majority of deaths linked to measles are due to pneumonia.
“Measles is deadly in a little less than 1% of cases, and children are at the highest risk,” says Weaver. “The cause of death in most of these cases is complications from pneumonia.”
The most effective way to protect against measles is through vaccination. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is recommended for all children at 12–15 months, with a second dose between the ages of 4 and 6. Before the vaccine’s introduction in the 1960s, nearly everyone contracted measles, making the MMR vaccine a “game-changer” in public health.
“Vaccination is the key to stopping these outbreaks,” says Weaver. “Increasing vaccination rates in the community is the easiest way to prevent the spread of the virus.”
Unfortunately, vaccination rates are still below the necessary 95% threshold in many parts of the United States, and many European countries are also facing “suboptimal” immunization coverage. In 2024, nearly 82% of measles cases in Europe were among unvaccinated individuals, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
While the standard two-dose MMR vaccine offers lifelong protection for most people, some individuals, especially those at high risk, may need a booster shot. This includes healthcare workers or people living in areas with ongoing outbreaks.
“If you’ve already received two doses as a child, there’s no immediate need to rush for a booster,” says Weaver. “However, if you’re at higher risk—such as those with respiratory conditions or close contact with an infected person—it may be worth discussing a booster with your healthcare provider.”
Public health experts agree that vaccination is the most powerful tool to prevent measles. Health officials stress the importance of increasing vaccination rates to curb the growing number of outbreaks.
As measles cases continue to rise globally, it’s crucial for individuals and families to ensure they are vaccinated and to encourage their communities to do the same. Preventing measles is not just a personal responsibility—it’s a collective one.
Measles is a preventable disease, and the solution lies in vaccination. With cases on the rise in the US and Europe, public health experts urge families to make sure they are up to date on their MMR shots. It’s simple—vaccination saves lives.
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