Measles: Symptoms, Risks, Prevention & When to Visit Urgent Care

Concerned about measles? Learn about symptoms, transmission, complications, prevention, and when to seek care. iCare ER & Urgent Care offers trusted, timely medical help.
Measles has made an unexpected comeback in recent years, with outbreaks appearing in areas where vaccination rates have declined. As a highly contagious viral disease, measles poses serious risks—especially to children and vulnerable populations. At iCare ER & Urgent Care, we believe early awareness is key to prevention and protection. Here’s everything you need to know about measles, including symptoms, transmission, who’s at risk, and when to seek medical attention.

What Is Measles?

Measles—also known as rubeola—is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through respiratory droplets. Though once considered eradicated in the U.S., measles outbreaks have returned due to declining vaccination rates in certain areas.

The measles virus infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body. It’s so contagious that 90% of non-immune individuals exposed to the virus will become infected. Just being in the same room as someone infected can be enough to catch the virus—even two hours after they leave.

While most people recover, measles can cause serious health complications, particularly in children under five, adults over 20, and those with weakened immune systems.

How Does Measles Spread?

The measles virus lives in the mucus of an infected person’s nose and throat. It spreads through:

• Coughing or sneezing

• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth

• Close personal contact or being in enclosed spaces with infected individuals

An infected person is contagious from four days before to four days after the rash appears.

Because it spreads before symptoms are obvious, measles is difficult to contain without vaccination and early diagnosis.

Who Is Most at Risk of Measles?

While anyone can catch measles, the following groups are especially vulnerable:

• Unvaccinated children and adults

• Infants younger than 12 months

• Pregnant women without immunity

• International travelers to regions with active measles cases

• Immunocompromised individuals (e.g., cancer patients, those with HIV/AIDS)

• Communities with low MMR vaccination rates

Even previously vaccinated individuals may experience waning immunity, which is why booster shots or titer testingmay be recommended in some cases.

Early Signs and Measles Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear 7 to 14 days after exposure, progressing in stages:

Stage 1: Prodrome (Initial Symptoms)

• High fever (up to 104°F)

• Dry cough

• Runny nose

• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)

• Fatigue and body aches

• Loss of appetite

Stage 2: Koplik Spots

• Tiny white spots with bluish centers appear inside the cheeks—a hallmark sign of measles.

• Typically emerge 2–3 days before the skin rash.

Stage 3: Measles Rash

• A red, blotchy rash begins on the face at the hairline and behind the ears, then spreads downward.

• Rash typically lasts 5–6 days, with fever peaking during this stage.

Complications of Measles: Why It’s More Than Just a Rash

Measles isn’t always a mild illness. In fact, about 1 in 5 unvaccinated people who get measles will require hospitalization.

Serious complications include:

• Ear infections (which can result in permanent hearing loss)

• Pneumonia – leading cause of measles-related death in young children

• Severe diarrhea and dehydration

• Acute encephalitis (brain swelling)

• Seizures

• Vision loss

• Pregnancy complications: premature birth, miscarriage, low birth weight

When to Seek Urgent or Emergency Medical Care for Measles

Visit iCare ER & Urgent Care if you or a loved one shows the classic triad of symptoms: high fever, cough, and rash—especially if exposure to an infected person is known or suspected.

Immediate care is needed if you observe:

• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath

• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, reduced urination)

• Confusion or drowsiness

• Seizures or high-pitched crying in infants

• Persistent high fever that won’t come down with medication

Diagnosis: How Is Measles Confirmed?

At iCare ER & Urgent Care, a provider may diagnose measles based on symptoms, travel history, and immunization status. To confirm:

• Throat swab or nasal swab

• Blood test to check for measles-specific antibodies

• Urine test in some cases

We recommend calling ahead if you suspect measles so our team can take isolation precautions to protect others.

How to Treat Measles: Supportive Care and Monitoring

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications:

• Fever control: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen

• Hydration: Encourage fluids to prevent dehydration

• Rest: Adequate rest supports the immune system

• Vitamin A supplementation: Especially important in children with low levels, shown to reduce severity

In some cases, hospitalization is required for oxygen therapy or IV fluids.

Prevention: MMR Vaccine is Your Best Defense

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent measles. The CDC recommends:

• Children: 1st dose at 12–15 months, 2nd dose at 4–6 years

• Adults born after 1957: At least one dose, unless medically exempt or already immune

• Healthcare workers, international travelers, college students: Should confirm immunity or receive two doses

Is a Booster Needed?

If you’re unsure about your immunity, ask your provider about measles antibody titer testing.

What To Do During a Measles Outbreak

If there’s a known measles outbreak in your area:

• Avoid public spaces if you’re unvaccinated or immune-compromised

• Monitor for symptoms daily

• Isolate if any symptoms appear

• Call iCare ER & Urgent Care to ask about testing and care

FAQs About Measles

Is measles contagious before the rash appears?

Yes. You can spread measles up to 4 days before the rash and 4 days after.

Can vaccinated people still get measles?

Yes, but it’s rare and usually mild. The vaccine is 97% effective with two doses.

Can I go to urgent care for measles?

Yes. iCare ER & Urgent Care can evaluate measles symptoms and determine if further emergency care is needed.

What if I’ve been exposed but have no symptoms?

If unvaccinated, you may still benefit from getting the MMR vaccine within 72 hours or immune globulin within 6 days of exposure. Contact us immediately.

Can I customize my MMR vaccine schedule?

Follow CDC guidelines unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider. For special cases (pregnancy, allergies, compromised immunity), consult your physician.

How iCare ER & Urgent Care Can Help

At iCare ER & Urgent Care, we provide:

• Same-day evaluation for measles symptoms

• Fast lab testing

• Access to both urgent and emergency care under one roof

• Guidance on vaccination and post-exposure steps

Our facilities are equipped to safely handle infectious diseases while protecting others in our care.

Get Peace of Mind at iCare ER & Urgent Care

If you or your child are experiencing a fever, rash, or may have been exposed to measles, don’t wait—early evaluation is essential. At iCare ER & Urgent Care, our experienced team is ready to provide fast, accurate diagnosis and supportive care in a safe, comfortable environment.

We offer:

✅ Dual model care — Urgent Care & ER under one roof
✅ Board-certified physicians available 24/7
✅ Short wait times and walk-in convenience
✅ Multiple Texas locations
✅ Most major insurance accepted + affordable self-pay rates

Protect your family. Get the care you need—when you need it.