Large measles outbreaks are occurring throughout the United States, including in states bordering or close to Colorado. With many families traveling for spring break, it’s crucial to ensure you and your family are protected. CDPHE urges Coloradans who have not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine or are not already immune to get vaccinated against this highly contagious disease.

Measles is more than a rash. It’s a serious respiratory illness that can lead to severe complications, including hearing loss, brain damage, and in serious cases, death. Measles spreads easily. It can remain in the air for up to two hours and stays on surfaces, too. If one person has it, 9 out of 10 people who are unprotected around them will get measles. A person can spread measles to others even before they show symptoms.

The MMR vaccine works extremely well and is your best protection against measles. It is highly effective, providing 93% protection after one dose and about 97% protection after two doses. The MMR vaccine has been included in the U.S. routine childhood vaccination schedule since the early 1990s, and measles vaccines have been routinely recommended since the early 1960s. CDPHE recommends that all children and adults who aren’t already immune get vaccinated.

• Children should receive two doses of MMR vaccine, the first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years

• Adults who may need to be vaccinated include:

  • Those who were vaccinated before 1968 and received early, inactivated versions of the measles vaccine which weren’t as effective as the current MMR vaccine.

  • Those who were born in 1958 or later who are unsure of their MMR vaccination history. There is no harm in getting a dose of MMR vaccine even if you may be immune already. 

The MMR vaccine is available at low or no cost at various locations, including: 

Doctor’s offices, community health centers, pharmacies, public health clinics, and some schools. Medicaid, CHP+, and most private health insurers cover the cost of the MMR vaccine. Even without health insurance, you can get recommended vaccines for no or low cost at one of nearly 600 locations.

• Know your measles immunity status

• Get vaccinated

• Check your travel destination

  • Measles Cases and Outbreaks

  • Global Measles Travel Health

Measles symptoms typically appear 7-21 days after exposure and include:

• High fever (may spike above 104° F)

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Red, watery eyes

• Rash (3-5 days after other symptoms begin)