Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause serious health complications. According to the CDC, measles symptoms often appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus. Common measles symptoms include:
- High fever (may spike to more than 104° F)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Rash
Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can get measles after being in a room where a person with measles has been. This can happen even up to 2 hours after that person has left.
Preventing Measles
The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. According to the CDC, two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective.
The MMR vaccine is widely available from healthcare providers and pharmacies across the community. The MMR vaccine is also available at any of the three Preventive Health Clinics at the Metro Public Health Department. Call your nearest clinical location to make an appointment today.
Eligible children from birth through 18 years of age may receive free, federally-funded vaccine through the Vaccines for Children Program. However, an administration fee of $20 is charged for vaccines but will slide according to income.
Children from birth through 18 years of age who meet at least one of the following criteria are eligible to receive this vaccine:
- TennCare
- Uninsured
- American Indian or Alaska Native
- Underinsured
If you have private insurance, private stock vaccine is available.