Health Officials Alert Public to Measles Cases and Provide Information on Protecting Against the Virus
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Measles is prompting health alerts worldwide, and officials are issuing important guidance to prevent its spread and protect the public. Understanding how the virus spreads and recognizing its symptoms are crucial for staying safe.
As of February 5, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 733 confirmed cases of measles in the United States.
According to the report, “2 fresh outbreaks have been notified in 2026, and 92% of confirmed cases (671 of 733) are associated with a current outbreak (9 outbreaks in 2026 and 662 from outbreaks that began in 2025).”
Measles is also known as measles in Spanish, so it’s common to see the disease referred to by this term, particularly in settings where testing or vaccinations are available.
How Contagious is Measles?
The call for vaccination against measles from health authorities is critical, as they emphasize that “all people who are not protected against the virus are at risk.” This underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent outbreaks.
Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but the virus can be reintroduced by travelers from other countries.
The CDC states that “measles is very contagious” and can be contracted easily. Taking preventative measures, such as wearing a mask, is therefore important.
“It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can catch measles simply by being in a room where a person with this disease has been,” the CDC explains.
Even after an infected person leaves a room, the virus can remain airborne and capable of spreading for up to two hours.
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What Does Measles Look Like?
The symptoms of measles can sometimes be mistaken for other illnesses, making early recognition important. Health authorities are urging vaccination to prevent infection and potential outbreaks.
The following three symptoms are key indicators of a possible measles infection and warrant medical attention:
- Runny nose (rhinitis)
- Red and watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Rash
In addition to these visible symptoms, a high fever (potentially exceeding 104°F) and a cough can also indicate a measles infection.
The CDC highlights the potential health complications associated with measles, stating, “Measles can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5 years old. Common complications include ear infections and diarrhea. Serious complications include pneumonia and encephalitis.”
