What new moms should know about the measles outbreak

Measles outbreak: What parents need to know and how to protect their kids

Canva/Motherly

Measles cases are surging and public health officials are urging parents to take precautions.

By Elizabeth Tenety Updated Feb. 25, 2025

Table of Contents

If you’re a mom, the last thing you want to hear is that a highly contagious disease is making a comeback.

But measles cases are rising in several states (including Texas, New Mexico and New Jersey), and public health officials are urging parents to take precautions—especially for babies too young to be vaccinated. It’s completely normal to feel worried, but understanding the facts can help you make the safest choices for your family.

To better understand the current outbreak and how parents can protect their children, Motherly spoke with Dr. Kristina Bryant, a pediatric infectious disease expert and member of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Committee on Infectious Diseases.

What is measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the rubeola virus. It spreads easily through the air and infects the respiratory system before spreading to other parts of the body.

Before the vaccine, millions of children contracted measles every year. While measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, recent outbreaks show how quickly it can return without widespread immunization.

Why is measles making a comeback?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a growing number of measles cases across the U.S., with outbreaks linked to international travel and declining vaccination rates.

“When measles immunization rates fall, the measles virus can begin to circulate, and outbreaks occur,” says Dr. Bryant. “According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, three outbreaks of measles have occurred in the United States so far in 2025. Almost all of the cases are in individuals who were not vaccinated against measles or whose vaccination status is unknown.”

Because measles spreads through the air (think coughs, sneezes, and even just breathing in the same room as an infected person), it’s one of the most contagious viruses out there. You can catch it up to two hours after an infected person has left a space.

Babies under 12 months aren’t yet eligible for their first measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) shot, making them more vulnerable if exposed. While most children recover without complications, measles can sometimes lead to more serious health concerns, including pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and, in rare cases, life-threatening complications, according to the CDC.

How does measles spread?

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. If one person has it, 90% of unvaccinated people nearby will catch it.

It’s airborne: The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left.
It spreads before symptoms appear: A person with measles is contagious four days before the rash appears and up to four days after.

What are the symptoms of measles?

“Early symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis or ‘pink eye,'” says Dr. Bryant. “Most patients with measles ultimately develop a red rash that starts on the head and spreads down the body.”

Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure.

Why is this happening now?

“Increasing vaccine hesitancy, fueled by debates over the COVID-19 vaccine, may be playing a role,” Dr. Bryant adds. “Some parents may not have reliable information about vaccines and may be reluctant to vaccinate because of misinformation. Importantly, parents need to know that vaccines do not cause autism.”

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting vaccine information, you’re not alone. It’s completely understandable to have questions. But what we do know—after decades of research—is that the MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and has protected millions of children worldwide.

The numbers tell the story:

Nearly 40 million children worldwide missed a measles vaccine dose in 2023, according to the World Health Organization.
U.S. childhood vaccination rates fell to 93% in the 2021-2022 school year, below the 95% needed for herd immunity, per the CDC.
1 in 5 people who get measles end up hospitalized, and 1-3 out of every 1,000 infected children will die from complications, per the CDC.

Measles isn’t just a rash—it’s a serious illness that can lead to lifelong health problems. The MMR vaccine, on the other hand, has been safely protecting children for over 50 years and is over 97% effective after two doses.

How long does measles last?

Measles follows a three-stage progression:

Incubation (7-14 days): No symptoms, but the virus is multiplying.
Prodromal phase (2-4 days): Fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes develop.
Rash phase (3-5 days): The rash appears and spreads across the body.

How long is measles contagious?

A person with measles is contagious from four days before the rash appears to four days after it fades.

How do you treat measles?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles, so care focuses on relieving symptoms:

Fever reduction: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help.
Hydration: Encourage fluids to prevent dehydration.
Rest: Let your child’s immune system fight the virus.

Vitamin A supplementation: The World Health Organization recommends two doses of Vitamin A (given 24 hours apart) for children with measles to reduce complications.

How can you protect your child?

Check Your Own Vaccine Status. If you were born after 1957 and had the two-dose MMR vaccine as a kid, you’re likely protected. If you’re unsure, ask your doctor for a simple immunity blood test.
Ask About Early Vaccination. The first MMR dose is usually given at 12-15 months, but if you’re traveling internationally or live in a high-risk area, your pediatrician might recommend an early dose as young as 6 months, per the AAP’s guidelines.
Avoid High-Risk Settings. If measles is spreading in your area, consider skipping crowded indoor spaces, especially places where kids gather (like playgroups or daycare) until your child is vaccinated.
Watch for Symptoms. “Measles virus spreads through the air and is very contagious. If you think that you or your child could have measles, let your doctor know when making the appointment so that special precautions can be taken to avoid exposing other people,” Dr. Bryant advises.

Is it too late to vaccinate for measles if there’s already been an outbreak?

“For people who live in communities where measles is circulating, it is not too late to be immunized against measles,” Dr. Bryant says. “I would encourage parents who are unsure if their child has received all recommended measles vaccines to contact their pediatrician or primary care provider.”

The bottom line

Parenting comes with a million decisions, and vaccines are one of the biggest ones we make for our kids. If you’ve ever had questions or concerns, you’re not alone. But what we do know—after decades of research and real-world experience—is that vaccines are far safer than measles.

While measles outbreaks are frustrating, the good news is that we have a way to prevent them. By staying informed, checking your family’s vaccine records, and following expert guidance, you’re taking the best steps to protect your little one.