The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
Measles
About Measles
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can lead to severe complications, especially in children. Measles was declared eliminated (absence of continuous disease transmission for greater than 12 months) from the United States in 2000. This was thanks to a highly effective vaccination program in the United States, as well as better measles control in the Americas region. However, measles risk is increasing globally, in the U.S., and in Michigan. Ensure you are up to date with your measles vaccine.
To learn more about the history of measles and the vaccine, visit History of Measles | CDC.
View and download the What to Know About Measles flyer for hospitals, local health departments and the public.
-
Transmission of Measles
Measles is highly contagious. 90% of persons without immunity to measles will become ill after exposure to the virus. Importantly, measles can be transmitted before the characteristic rash develops. Measles virus can persist in the air for hours AFTER an ill person has left. Therefore, an individual can be exposed even without being in the same place at the same time as a measles case.
-
Prevent Measles
Make sure you and your loved ones are up to date with the measles vaccine. Two doses of MMR vaccine are over 95% effective in preventing measles.
Things Parents need to Know About Measles
Measles is very contagious and can be serious. An unvaccinated child can get measles when traveling abroad or even in the U.S. -
Signs and Symptoms
-
Measles Risk Increasing
Measles risk is increasing globally, in the U.S., and in Michigan:
Global:
- CDC Global Measles Outbreaks
- WHO: Rapid measles outbreak response critical to protect millions of vulnerable children
United States:
Michigan:
- Oakland County Case (2/23/2024): Press release
- Wayne County Case (3/3/2024): Press release
- Washtenaw County Case (3/3/2024): Press release
- MDHHS urges residents to make sure they are up-to-date on measles
-
Planning an International Trip?Use this tool to check if you are protected against measles.
-
Questions About Measles
Get answers to frequently asked questions about measles and the vaccine used to prevent it.
-
Access Your Immunization RecordIf you have been immunized in the State of Michigan, you may be able to download your immunization record from the Michigan Care Improvement Registry (MCIR). Visit the Michigan Immunization Portal to learn more or contact your healthcare provider.