One of patient requested this information. Patient was worried about the measles outbreak in a country she is visiting.
For those who do not know, there is a measles outbreak in New Zealand, parts of France and some locations in Europe at this time.
Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can be very unpleasant and sometimes lead to serious complications. It's now uncommon in the US because of the effectiveness of vaccination.
Anyone can get measles if they have not been vaccinated or have not had it before, although it's most common in young children.
The infection usually clears in around 7 to 10 days.
Symptoms of measles
The initial symptoms of measles develop around 10 days after you're infected.
These can include:
- cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing and a cough
- sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light
- a high temperature (fever), which may reach around 40C (104F)
- small greyish-white spots on the inside of the cheeks
A few days later, a red-brown blotchy rash will appear. This usually starts on the head or upper neck before spreading outwards to the rest of the body.
When to see us
You should contact us as soon as possible if you suspect that you or your child may have measles.
It's best to phone us before so that we can make arrangements to reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others.
You should also see a us if you have been in close contact with someone who has measles and have not:
- been fully vaccinated with 2 doses of the MMR vaccine
- had the infection before
You should do this even if you do not have any symptoms.
How measles can be prevented
Measles can be prevented by having the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
This is given in 2 doses as part of the childhood vaccination schedule.
The first dose is given when your child is around 13 months old, and a second dose is given at 3 years and 4 months.
What if you are not vaccinated and traveling to an area where there is measles
Please get your vaccination done at least one month prior to the travel date. Since this is two dose with at least one month between them, you must get your first dose two months before the travel date, followed by second dose one month before travel date.
Where can I get MMR vaccine?
MMR Vaccine is available at Tricounty Health clinic at the location below on Tuesdays and Thursdays (from 1 to 3 pm only) on walk in basis.
Aurora Office
15400 E. 14th Place
Aurora, CO 80011
MMR vaccine when we checked last at this location cost $80.