Key takeaways: Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known. Babies under 12 months usually haven’t had the MMR vaccine and are at higher risk of complications like pneumonia and brain swelling. The first MMR dose is routinely given at 12 to 15 months, but babies 6 to 11 months may get an early dose before international travel or during outbreaks. Call before going to a clinic if you suspect measles.
Measles cases have risen in the U.S. in recent years. Babies are among the most vulnerable.
How Contagious Is It?
The CDC says up to 9 out of 10 people who aren’t protected and are close to someone with measles will catch it. The virus can stay in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves a room. People are contagious from about 4 days before the rash to 4 days after.
Signs
Symptoms usually start 7 to 14 days after exposure:
- High fever.
- Cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.
- Tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots) may appear.
- Rash starting 3 to 5 days later, beginning on the face and hairline and spreading down the body.
Why It’s Dangerous for Babies
Complications are more common in children under 5, including:
- Ear infections.
- Diarrhea and dehydration.
- Pneumonia, the most common cause of measles death in young children.
- Encephalitis (brain swelling).
- A rare, fatal brain disease years later (SSPE), which is more likely when measles is caught in infancy.
From the author
From First Breath to First Birthday is my month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year, written as a NICU and postpartum nurse. My book covers common first-year illnesses and the warning signs that mean it’s time to call the doctor, explained the way I’d explain them at the bedside.
Protecting Your Baby
- MMR vaccine: first dose at 12 to 15 months, second at 4 to 6 years.
- Early dose: babies 6 to 11 months should get an early MMR dose before international travel, and may be offered one during local outbreaks. They still need the 2 routine doses later.
- Vaccinated household: make sure family and caregivers are protected.
- If exposed: call your doctor right away. Babies may be able to get preventive treatment (MMR vaccine within 72 hours or immune globulin within 6 days, depending on age).
If You Suspect Measles
Call ahead before going to a doctor’s office or ER so staff can prevent spreading it to others.
Treatment
There’s no specific antiviral treatment. Care focuses on fluids, fever control, and treating complications. Vitamin A is recommended for children with measles under medical supervision.
Seek care right away if your baby: has fever and rash, trouble breathing, signs of dehydration, seizures, or unusual sleepiness, or was exposed to measles.
The Bottom Line
Measles is highly contagious and dangerous for babies. Vaccinate on time, ask about an early dose before travel, and call ahead if you suspect it.
Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.
Related Articles
- Flu in Babies: Prevention and Warning Signs
- Whooping Cough in Babies
- Hepatitis B and Your Newborn: When a Parent Tests Positive
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles: symptoms and complications; vaccine recommendations; plan for travel. https://www.cdc.gov/measles
- American Academy of Pediatrics. Measles. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org
- World Health Organization. Measles fact sheet. https://www.who.int
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
