Houston Virus Advisory: Measles

Virus Alert Warning (Jan. 2025)

The Houston Health Department (HHD) has identified two confirmed cases of measles in adults associated with recent international travel. Both individuals reside in the same household and were not vaccinated. These are the first reported measles cases in Houston since 2018.

    ABOUT MEASLES

    Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through coughing, sneezing or simply being near someone infected. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area, making it easy to contract in shared spaces.

    SYMPTOMS

    • High fever
    • Cough
    • Runny nose
    • Red, watery eyes
    • Rash, typically starting on the face and spreading downward 2–5 days after initial symptoms

    INFECTIOUS PERIOD 
    People with measles can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears to four days after.

    POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS AND HIGH-RISK GROUPS
    While measles can infect anyone, complications can be severe and include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, or, in rare cases, brain inflammation (encephalitis). Those at the highest risk include:

    • Infants and children under 5 years old
    • Pregnant individuals
    • People with weakened immune systems
       
    Girl with Measles


    PREVENTION

    • Vaccination with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles.
    • · Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide a 97% protection rate and long-lasting immunity.
    • · The CDC and HHD recommend:
      • The first dose at 12–15 months of age
      • The second dose at 4–6 years of age

    WHAT TO DO IF EXPOSED OR SYMPTOMATIC
    If you believe you have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms:

    • Isolate yourself immediately to prevent spreading the virus to others.
    • Contact your healthcare provider by phone to arrange testing in a way that minimizes exposure to others.
    • Watch for symptoms, which typically develop 7–21 days after exposure.

    VACCINE ACCESS IN HOUSTON

    • Insured Individuals: Contact your healthcare provider or local pharmacy to check vaccine availability.
    • Uninsured or Underinsured Individuals: Free or low-cost vaccines are available through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) or Adult Safety Net (ASN) programs.

    For additional information about measles, symptoms, or vaccination, learn more from the CDC or contact the Houston Health Department at 832-393-4220.

    This will be updated as the investigation evolves.

    Possible Measles Exposure Locations:

    Anyone who was at one of the above locations at the listed date and time should make sure they are up to date on the measles vaccine (MMR).
     

    • If you are not up to date, call your provider or local pharmacy to see about obtaining the vaccine
    • If you care concerned about cost you can call 832-393-4220 for information on where to find free or low cost vaccines for those who are eligible
       

    Anyone who might been exposed to measles should monitor themselves for symptoms, including a rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red watery eyes. It can take 7 to 21 days after exposure for symptoms to appear.


    If you show symptoms of measles, you should stay home and away from others, and call your doctor to make arrangements for evaluation and treatment.

    Learn more about HHD programs and services or call 832-393-4220.

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    Page last reviewed: January 23, 2025