Measles is a highly contagious, serious disease caused by a virus. Measles is caused by a virus in the paramyxovirus family and it is normally passed through direct contact and through the air. The virus infects the respiratory tract , then spreads throughout the body. Measles is a human disease and is not known to occur in animals.
Measles starts with fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and sore throat. It’s followed by a rash that spreads over the body. Two or three days after symptoms begin, tiny white spots (Koplik spots) may appear inside the mouth. Measles virus is highly contagious virus and spreads through the air through coughing and sneezing. The best way to prevent measles, mumps and rubella is with the (MMR) vaccine.
Franklin County Public Health offers the MMR vaccine at all of our 10 Immunization Clinics.
For vaccine availability, contact your healthcare provider, retail pharmacy clinic, or local health department. Learn more about Franklin County Public Health's Immunization Clinic information.