Keep Your Children and Family Safe from Measles

Published on April 02, 2025

Photo of a child sick with measles.

There are severe outbreaks of Measles in Texas and many other locations throughout the nation. The following is what you need to know and how to protect your family, including getting safe and effective MMR vaccinations:

Measles is highly contagious. If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected.

The best protection against measles is measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The MMR vaccine provides long-lasting protection against all strains of measles.

Signs and symptoms of Measles

Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus. Common measles symptoms include:

  • High fever (may spike to more than 104° F)
  • Cough
  • Runny nose (coryza)
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • Rash

Complications

Measles can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5 years of age. Common complications are ear infections and diarrhea. Serious complications include pneumonia and encephalitis.

Free Vaccines

The Ulster County Department of Health offers free vaccinations for uninsured and underinsured youth (18 years of age and younger). Vaccine clinics are the first and third Wednesday of every month, by appointment only.

Call (845) 340-3070 to schedule an appointment.

 

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