Measles

Current Cases

Measles Cases in Washington State - Cases of measles are increasing.

Exposure Map

Public Measles Exposure Locations in Washington Map

Visit the Public Measles Exposure Location mapping tool to see if you might have been exposed to measles at a public location in Washington State.

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious viral illness caused by the measles virus. It was once a common childhood disease, but it is now safely prevented by a vaccine.

Measles Symptoms

Very high fever
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
A rash typically follows 3 – 5 days later, which starts at the head and spreads down the body

Measles Complications

Most people recover from measles, but some can have serious complications. Problems include ear infections, pneumonia, or brain swelling. Young children and people with weaker immune systems are more likely to have problems from measles.

How Measles Spreads

Measles is a very contagious virus. It spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks nearby. The virus can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to 2 hours after the infected person leaves the area. This means you can get exposed to measles by entering a room where someone with measles has recently left.

Who is at Risk

Any person who has not received a measles vaccine is at risk of getting measles if they’re exposed. Some people have a higher risk of measles complications, including:

Infants under 12 months and young children who have not been vaccinated.
Unvaccinated pregnant people and their unborn babies.
People with weakened immune systems, whether from illness or medical treatment.

Vaccination is the Best Protection

The MMR vaccine protects against 3 diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. A similar vaccine, MMRV, also protects against varicella (chicken pox). The vaccine is the strongest and safest protection against measles. One dose protects about 93 out of 100 people, and two doses protect about 97 out of 100 people. Vaccinated people help slow and stop the spread of measles, which protects those who are more at risk. We call this “community immunity.”

If you have any questions about measles vaccination, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. Children 18 years of age or younger can receive routine vaccines at no cost by visiting a health care provider participating in the state’s Childhood Vaccine Program. Use the Vaccine Map to find eligible providers.

Learn more about the MMR vaccine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check measles exposure locations?

Public Measles Exposure Locations in Washington State Map shows public locations in the state where people who had measles visited while they were contagious. Exposure locations are marked on a state map with orange dots, with details on each location shown on the right-hand side. The map displays exposure dates, times, and addresses for each location. Subscribe to get email alerts for reported exposures.

What should I do if I have been exposed to measles?

If you were at an exposed location at the time and date mentioned on the map, or someone in your life that you have been close to has been diagnosed with measles, take preventative measures to protect your health and limit the spread of measles.

Call your health care provider or local public health office right away to review your immunization records. Vaccinating against measles is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community.
If you are not immune or are unsure about your vaccination status, you will have to stay home for 21 days after you were exposed and avoid contact with others while you watch for measles symptoms.

How can I check if I am vaccinated for measles?

You can check if you have been vaccinated with the MMR vaccine by obtaining vaccination records from your doctor’s office, pharmacy, or the provider who vaccinated you. You can sign up for myirmobile.com to view and print your family’s immunization records online from the Washington State immunization registry. You can also contact the Office of Immunization to get your records by calling 360-236-3595 or 1-866-397-0337.

What should I do if I develop measles symptoms?

If you or your family get sick with measles symptoms, including a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a rash within 21 days after you were exposed, immediately call your doctor or health care provider. Do not go to a health care office without calling first. Calling ahead avoids exposing others.
If measles is confirmed, you will be instructed to stay home, avoid work, school, child care, social gatherings, and public transportation until 4 days after the rash first appeared, unless you need medical care.