Information on Measles

Measles Information & Resources

Measles cases continue to be reported across Pennsylvania, including in Chester County. We’ve compiled the information below to help residents, team members and families stay informed, healthy and safe.

Staying Informed About Measles
The health and well-being of our residents, team members, families, and visitors is a top priority. This page provides information about measles, including symptoms, prevention, and links to trusted resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

For the most current information, please refer to official CDC guidance.

Quick Measles Facts
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. [cdc.gov], [pa.gov]

How contagious is measles?
Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases. According to the CDC, if one person has measles, up to 9 out of 10 unprotected people nearby may become infected. [stacks.cdc.gov]

What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red or watery eyes
• A red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body

Symptoms often appear 7-14 days after exposure. [cdc.gov], [pa.gov]

Can measles be serious?
Yes. Measles can lead to complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), hospitalization, and in rare cases, death. Young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems may be at higher risk for complications. [stacks.cdc.gov], [pa.gov]

How can measles be prevented?
The CDC states that two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provide the best protection against measles. Most people who receive the recommended doses are protected for life.

Frequently Asked Questions
Am I protected against measles?
According to the CDC, you may be considered protected if:

• You have received the recommended number of measles-containing vaccines (such as MMR).
• A laboratory test confirms immunity.
• A laboratory test confirms you previously had measles.
• You were born before 1957.

Do I need a measles booster?
The CDC states that individuals who received two doses of measles vaccine according to recommendations are generally considered protected for life and do not need a booster dose. If you are unsure of your vaccination status, contact your healthcare provider. 

What should I do if I think I have measles?
If you develop symptoms or believe you have been exposed:

• Contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Avoid close contact with others.
• Follow medical guidance regarding testing and isolation.

Seek emergency medical care if you experience severe symptoms or breathing difficulties.

What if I am not sure whether I have been vaccinated?
Talk with your healthcare provider. They can review your vaccination records or recommend appropriate next steps. 

Guidance for Residents, Families, and Team Members
For Residents and Families

• The MMR vaccine remains the best protection against measles.
• If you have concerns about vaccination status or possible exposure, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
• Stay informed using trusted sources such as the CDC. 

For Team Members

• Follow organizational health and infection prevention guidance.
• Report symptoms promptly and contact your healthcare provider if measles exposure is suspected.
• Review your vaccination history if you are uncertain of your immunity status. 
  

Trusted Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

• Measles Overview: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/
• CDC Measles FAQs: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/about/questions.html

Pennsylvania Department of Health

• Measles Information: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/health/diseases-conditions/infectious-disease/measles [pa.gov]

Chester County Health Department

• Measles Information: Chester County Measles Information
  

Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for educational purposes and should not replace advice from your healthcare provider. For medical questions, concerns about symptoms, or vaccination recommendations, please consult your physician or healthcare professional. Information and recommendations may change as public health guidance is updated.