Vaccine-preventable infection
Measles
A highly contagious viral infection that can cause pneumonia and brain inflammation.
Explore Measles on the monitor · Reviewed 2026-10-06
How it spreads
Through the air from an infected person, including air in shared indoor spaces.
Symptoms and context
Fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a spreading rash.
Prevention
Complete the recommended measles vaccination course and follow advice after an exposure.
When to seek advice
Call ahead if measles is suspected so the service can protect other patients; seek urgent care for breathing difficulty or confusion.
On the desk
- New York declares a measles emergency — evidence reviewed 2026-10-06
- US measles surveillance in 2026 — evidence reviewed 2026-10-06
- Suspected measles cases reported in Yemen — evidence reviewed 2026-10-06
Read the original guidance
This is general information. Current local health guidance and professional assessment take priority for individual decisions.