03/11/2025
We know many of our parents are concerned about the recent measles outbreak. So here’s a few important points to know about Measles.
It is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets. Symptoms typically appear 7–14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Small white spots (Koplik spots) may appear inside the mouth, followed by a red rash that starts on the face and spreads across the body.
Babies usually receive their first dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine at 12–15 months, with a second dose at 4–6 years. However, infants aged 6–11 months may receive an early dose if traveling to places where there are significant outbreaks. This early dose does not replace routine vaccinations.
If exposed to measles, seek medical advice—especially for unvaccinated individuals, pregnant women, or those with weakened immune systems. Call your healthcare provider before visiting to prevent spreading the virus. Emergency care is needed for severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or signs of complications like pneumonia. Since measles can spread before symptoms appear, vaccination and early intervention are critical in controlling outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations.
Parents, please schedule your yearly wellness check ups to ensure your children’s vaccinations are up to date. Most importantly, if you child is 12months old or 4 -6 years of age, schedule those wellness checkups so that your child can get the MMR vaccination along with other scheduled vaccinations.
We are here for you! Please contact us if you have specific questions.
