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Division of Academic and Student Affairs 
Campus Health

Measles

Understanding Measles and What You Need to Know

What is Measles?

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus. While eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 due to widespread vaccination, outbreaks still occur due to international travel and pockets of unvaccinated populations. Measles is a serious viral infection that spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can also live on surfaces and in the air for up to two hours. It is incredibly contagious; up to 90% of people close to a person with measles who are not immune will also become infected. Staying informed and vaccinated is crucial for the health and safety of our campus community.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure but can take up to 21 days. Measles usually begins with:

  • High fever (which may spike to over 104°F)
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)

A few days after these initial symptoms, tiny white spots may appear inside the mouth for some individuals. A rash typically follows these initial symptoms, usually beginning on the head or face and spreading to other parts of the body, including the torso, arms and legs over several days.

Complications from measles can be serious, especially for young children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Common complications include ear infections and diarrhea. More severe complications can include pneumonia (the most common cause of measles-related death) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), which may require hospitalization and can lead to lasting brain damage. Measles during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, low birth weight, and preterm delivery.

Vaccination and Prevention

The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination with the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles. Additional prevention measures include:

  • Respiratory Hygiene and Cough Etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and dispose of the tissue immediately. If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow.
  • Handwashing: Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) if soap and water are not available.
  • Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, tables, desks, phones).

For college students, two doses of the MMR vaccine are typically recommended, and required by The State of North Carolina Public Health Law. If you are unsure about your vaccination status, contact Campus Health or your healthcare provider to check your records or discuss getting vaccinated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.

A person with measles can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears to four days after the rash appears.

Yes, with some exceptions. North Carolina Public Health law requires all college and university students to present proof of immunity, including two doses of the measles (MMR) vaccine or laboratory results that show immunity, unless born before 1957 or with documented medical or religious exemptions. For more information regarding immunization requirements visit our Immunizations and TB Compliance webpage.

You are unlikely to get measles if you are up to date with your MMR vaccine or have other evidence of immunity.

If you are not immune:

  • Isolate from others. Do not go to class, work, public places, or use public transportation.
  • Contact Campus Health or your health care provider. Call first to set an appointment and inform them of your exposure. Steps will be taken to protect you and others. Your doctor may recommend the MMR vaccine or a medicine called immune globulin to reduce risk.
  • Stay home for 21 days after exposure to measles and monitor for symptoms. 

You may hear from us or the local health department. What to expect during public health outreach for infectious diseases.

While two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective, a small percentage of vaccinated individuals may still get measles if exposed. However, the illness is usually milder, and they are less likely to spread the disease to others.

Yes. Studies have shown that individuals with egg allergies can safely receive the MMR vaccine without prior testing or special precautions, as the amount of egg protein in the vaccine is extremely small.

Pregnant individuals are advised not to receive live virus vaccines, including MMR, during pregnancy as a precaution. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss your vaccination status and any potential exposures with your healthcare provider immediately. Measles during pregnancy can be very serious for both the pregnant individual and the fetus.

For more information on measles, please visit the below links: