Measles Information Portal
Measles - A Vaccine Preventable Disease
Measles - A Vaccine Preventable Disease
Measles is a highly contagious, serious viral disease that remains a leading cause of death among young children globally, despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine. Measles is caused by a virus in the paramyxovirus family and is normally passed through direct contact and through the air.
The measles vaccine has been in use since the 1960s. It is safe, effective, and inexpensive. WHO recommends immunization for all susceptible children and adults for whom measles vaccination is not contraindicated. Two doses of the measles vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles.
Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963, major epidemics occurred approximately every 2-3 years, causing an estimated 2.6 million deaths each year. Despite significant progress, measles continues to cause outbreaks worldwide, particularly in areas with low vaccination coverage.
Measles deaths annually (2018 data)
Measles vaccine effectiveness
Global measles vaccine coverage (first dose)
Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure to the virus. Measles is contagious from 4 days before to 4 days after the rash appears.
High fever (often >104°F/40°C), cough, runny nose, red watery eyes (conjunctivitis), and fatigue
Small white spots with bluish-white centers inside the mouth, appearing 2-3 days before the rash
Red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and behind the ears, then spreads downward to the chest, arms, and legs
Fever rises as rash appears, reaching up to 104-105°F, then subsides as rash fades
From 4 days before rash appears until 4 days after rash appears
Illness typically lasts 7-10 days, with rash fading in the same order it appeared
Primary Prevention
Two doses: First at 12-15 months, second at 4-6 years
97% effective against measles
Combination Vaccine
Protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella
Available for children 12 months to 12 years
Mass Vaccination
During outbreaks, vaccination campaigns target all susceptible individuals
Post-exposure prophylaxis within 72 hours
International Travel
Infants 6-11 months need early MMR dose before international travel
Check vaccination status before travel
Measles can cause serious, sometimes fatal complications, especially in children under 5 years, adults over 20, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.
The most common cause of death from measles. Accounts for 60% of measles-related deaths. Can be viral or secondary bacterial pneumonia.
Brain swelling occurring in 1 in 1,000 cases. Can cause permanent brain damage, seizures, intellectual disability, or death.
Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis - a fatal brain disease that develops 7-10 years after measles infection. 100% fatal.
Occurs in 1 in 10 children with measles. Can lead to permanent hearing loss.
Common complication that can lead to dehydration and malnutrition, especially in developing countries.
Increased risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and low birth weight. No congenital syndrome but serious for mother.
Before widespread vaccination, measles caused an estimated 2.6 million deaths annually. Despite a 73% reduction in measles deaths between 2000-2018, measles still caused over 140,000 deaths in 2018, mostly children under 5. Measles remains endemic in many parts of the world.
All information based on World Health Organization (WHO) data, guidelines, and publications including:
• WHO Measles Fact Sheets
• Weekly Epidemiological Record (WER) publications
• Global Measles and Rubella Strategic Plan
For latest updates, visit: WHO Measles Information