Measles Information

From January 1 to March 6, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been notified of 222 cases of measles across 12 jurisdictions in the U.S. (Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, & Washington). Most of these cases are in persons 5-19 years old and in those who are unvaccinated or who have unknown vaccination status.

In New Jersey there have been a total of 3 measles cases reported so far in 2025 and 7 measles cases reported in 2024.

For current national data please visit the CDC Measles and Outbreaks page. For current New Jersey data please visit the NJDOH Measles page.

What is Measles?

• Measles is a very contagious (easily spread) respiratory disease caused by a virus. Before the measles vaccine became available, measles was a common childhood disease. Measles is considered the most deadly of all childhood rash/fever illnesses.

Who is at Risk of Getting Measles?

• Anyone who has not already had measles or has not received the measles vaccine is at risk.

How does Measles Spread?

• It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• You can get measles just by being in a room where a person with measles has been. This can happen up to 2 hours after that person has left.

What are the symptoms of Measles?

• High fever (may spike to more than 104° F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• Rash (usually appears 3-5 days after symptoms begin). The rash usually begins as flat red spots that appear on the face at the hairline and spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.

What is the treatment for Measles?

• There is no cure for measles, only supportive treatment (bed rest, fluids, fever reduction). Most patients will recover on their own.

How can I keep myself and others safe from Measles?

• The best way to make sure you are protected is to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine!
• CDC recommends that all children get two doses of the MMR vaccine:
  • 1st dose between 12-15 months
  • 2nd dose between 4-6 years old
• Anyone traveling internationally should also be fully vaccinated before traveling
• Measles vaccines are safe and effective at preventing disease!

What if I am an older child, teenager, or adult who has never received a Measles vaccine?

• If you have not been previously vaccinated, you may still receive the MMR vaccine(s) as long as it has been 4 or more weeks between each dose
• Consult with your primary care provider for your appropriate catch up schedule

What if I am not sure if I have been vaccinated or have protection against Measles?

• Verify that you meet one of the following criteria for evidence of immunity:
• Written documentation of adequate vaccination (look at your vaccination records or ask your healthcare provider to see if you have already had the age-appropriate dose or doses of this vaccine)
• Laboratory evidence of immunity (titers)
• Laboratory confirmation of disease
• Birth before 1957
• 1-2 additional doses of MMR vaccine may be recommended for older children, adolescents, & adults if they do not have evidence of immunity against measles