Diseases

 Measles

Last Updated: April 10, 2024

​​​What You Need to Know About Measles

What is Measles?

MeaslesExternal Link​ is one of the most highly contagious respiratory diseases caused by a virus. It spreads easily from person to person and causes a blotchy red rash and flu-like symptomsExternal Link. Measles can lead to health complications, hospitalization, and death in children and adults.

The best protection against measles and measles-related complications is vaccination!

Visit the Military Healthcare System website to learn more about Measles-Mumps-RubellaExternal Link​.​​ Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Questions About MeaslesExternal Link to learn what to do if you've been exposed to measles.​

Cases and Outbreaks

Recent decline in measle​s vaccination rates worldwide have led to the increased risk of measles cases. Measles cases are on the rise in the U.S. and around the world.

While measles in Service members is rare because of vaccine requirements, there is a potential for outbreaks on ships and related quarantines. Family members may be at increased risk, especially those who are less-than-fully vaccinated because of young age, medical conditions, or other reasons.

For more information on measles cases and outbreaks, visit:

 

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

The MMR vaccine is safe and effective at preventing measles, mumps, and rubella and is the best way to prevent measles and measles-related complications and death. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective.

The Department of Defense (DoD) works with the CDC and its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to offer immunizations to DoD personnel and other beneficiaries. The DoD Immunization ProgramExternal Link​ establishes policy, assigns responsibilities, and provides procedures to establish a uniform DoD immunization program.

More Information about the MMR Vaccine: