What do I need to know about the measles outbreak?
There is now one confirmed case of Measles in the state of Maryland. The measles outbreak started in Texas, and has now spread to multiple other states, now including Maryland, which confirmed its first case as of 3/9/2025.
What do I need to know about measles?
Measles is a very contagious virus that is spread by breathing droplets in the air or touching viral particles left behind on various surfaces; the virus can linger in the air for up to 2 hours. The virus is so contagious that 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people exposed to the virus will get the disease. While measles initially causes common cold symptoms, such as cough, runny nose, pink eye and high fever, there are characteristics that help identify measles from other viruses. In the first 3 days children can develop white spots on the inside of their cheeks (koplik spots), and around day 4 of illness a rash appears on the face or neck, and then spreads down to the rest of the body. However, children are considered contagious 4 days before through 4 days after the rash appears.
How can we prevent measles?
Pediatricians are all about prevention! The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The good news is that Maryland has greater than a 95% vaccination rate for measles, which promotes herd immunity. However, there is still a risk of an outbreak as there is not a 100% vaccination rate. Children typically get the measles vaccines at 12 months old, and then a second dose at 4 years old. This 2-dose series is considered 97% effective against measles. During an outbreak, children as young as 6 months old can be vaccinated, but they will still need the 2-dose series starting at 12 months old.
What are the complications of measles?
The potential complications of measles are the reason we vaccinate children against measles! 1 in 5 people with measles will require hospitalization. Measles can cause ear infections and even result in long-term hearing loss. Moreover, it can cause pneumonia and respiratory distress syndrome, resulting in death. Additionally, it can cause meningitis (infection in the brain) as well as encephalitis (brain swelling), resulting in seizures, permanent brain damage or death.
What action do I need to take at this time?
Please ensure your kiddos are up to date on their vaccines. Call to schedule your child's well check or speak to a nurse/provider regarding your child's vaccination status today!
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