Houston Virus Advisory: Measles
Virus Alert Warning (2025)
There have been three confirmed cases of measles within Houston since March 2025
The latest case involves an unvaccinated infant who was exposed to measles during international travel. The infant was hospitalized and has since been discharged and is recovering at home.
HHD is actively investigating the case and is working to identify anyone who may have been exposed to help prevent it from spreading. HHD urges anyone who develops symptoms of measles to contact their healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility to prevent potential exposure to others.
Should you need to travel internationally or to any domestic (United States) area of the measles outbreak, early vaccination is available and recommended (as early as 6 months old with a second dose available in as little as 28 days after the first dose). Call your doctor or the Health Department at 832-393-4220
For questions or concerns email Measlesinfo@houstontx.gov. Allow 24 hours for a response.
Resources
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.
INFECTIOUS PERIOD
People with measles can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears to four days after.
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
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.
SYMPTOMS
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Rash, typically starting on the face and spreading downward 2–5 days after initial symptoms
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
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.
We discuss Measles in 10 minutes.
Measles 101 in 10 minutes!
Key Points:
- Signs
- Community Data
- Symptoms
- Other health concerns
Learn more about HHD programs and services or call 832-393-4220.
Immunizations
We protect Houston communities from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Page last reviewed: May 5, 2025