Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the measles virus, spread through respiratory droplets that can lead to severe complications. In 2025, the U.S. recorded more than 2,000 confirmed cases of measles. Early indications suggest that 2026 is on pace to surpass that number.
Vaccination is the best prevention for the measles virus, through the MMR vaccine which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. It’s given in two doses and is highly effective at preventing all three diseases and reducing outbreaks in the community.
Not sure about your immunization status? If you were immunized in Michigan, you may be able to download your immunization record through the Michigan Immunization Portal. If you are able to locate health records to show proof of status, it could save you from 21 days of potential quarantine if you are exposed to the virus.
Transmission
Measles is transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus can also remain infectious in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after the infected person has left the area, which is why it spreads so easily.
If one person is infected, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected. It is spread through coughing, sneezing, and via infected surfaces. It can live for up to two hours in an airspace after an infected person leaves the area.
Symptoms
Symptoms may show up 3-14 days after exposure, including high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, tiny white spots inside the mouth, and flat red spots on the skin. There is no specific treatment for measles, other than comfort measures like bed rest and treating symptoms.
Prevention
Luckily, it’s easy to protect yourself by ensuring you are up to date on your MMR vaccine, a combination vaccine that protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
- Students can contact Campus Health Services at 517-353-4660 to schedule an appointment to get vaccinated. Remember, all students are eligible for 3 prepaid appointments each academic year.
- Faculty and staff are encouraged to contact their primary care provider to discuss their risk and immunization status.
- If you think you may have measles and seek medical attention, please call ahead so that proper isolation strategies can be put in place.
Learn more about measles and stay up to date with Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.