As measles outbreaks continue to emerge across the United States, service providers working with newcomer populations need accurate information and culturally appropriate resources. Understanding measles transmission, recognizing symptoms, and knowing vaccination recommendations are essential for protecting vulnerable communities. This blog post provides guidance and resources for service providers on measles—a highly contagious viral illness currently affecting multiple states across the U.S.
Current Measles Outbreak Situation
As of March 2025, numerous U.S. states are reporting measles infections. The most significant number of infections is in Texas, primarily West Texas. Other places experiencing measles cases include Alaska, California, Georgia, Kentucky, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, Rhode Island, and Washington.
Service providers play a crucial role in helping newcomers understand and navigate health challenges in their new environment. This role includes providing critical health information to keep clients and their families safe.
Understanding Measles: Answering FAQs from Service Providers
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system and can cause serious complications. Here’s what you should know to help inform your clients:
What is Measles?
Measles is a viral infection that can spread rapidly among unvaccinated populations. It’s not simply a childhood disease with a rash—it can cause serious complications and even death.
How Contagious is Measles?
Measles is extremely contagious. The virus can spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes, releasing contaminated droplets into the air. These droplets can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after the infected person has left the area. Additionally, the virus can spread through contact with infected surfaces.
The contagiousness of measles is particularly concerning—approximately 90% of unvaccinated people will contract measles if they are exposed to the virus.
Who is at Highest Risk?
Measles can be particularly dangerous for:
- Infants and young children
- Pregnant women
- People with weakened immune systems
- Unvaccinated individuals
What are the Common Symptoms of Measles?
Measles typically begins with:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
After several days, a distinctive rash appears, usually starting on the face and spreading downward to the rest of the body. The rash looks like red spots or blotchy patches and can be itchy. It may appear differently depending on skin tone.
What are the Potential Complications of Measles?
Measles is not a minor illness. Potential complications include:
- Ear infections, which can result in permanent hearing loss
- Pneumonia (lung infection)
- Encephalitis (brain swelling)
- Weakening of the immune system, making the person more vulnerable to other infections
- Pregnancy complications, including premature birth or low birth weight
- Death (rare but possible)
One in five people who contract measles will need to be hospitalized. The measles virus can weaken the immune system, making someone more likely to get another illness, even years after they have been infected.
Prevention and Protection: Guidance for Service Providers
Vaccination is Key
The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective—a vaccinated person has less than a 3% chance of catching the virus if exposed.
The vaccine has been used since 1963 and has been exhaustively studied. It is recommended that people receive their first dose at 12 months of age, with a second dose typically given between ages 4 and 6.
Special Considerations for Refugee and Immigrant Populations
Many refugees received the measles vaccine before coming to the U.S. or shortly after arrival. Unaccompanied children typically receive the measles vaccine while in Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) shelters. The measles vaccine is required to adjust status to Lawful Permanent Resident (green card); therefore, everyone who has or had LPR status should have received the measles vaccine.
If clients are unsure about their vaccination status, they can contact their doctor’s office, which should have their vaccination records. If a client has an Overseas Medical Screening, they can also check the immunization documents they were provided at travel.
Supporting Clients During Outbreaks
If a measles outbreak occurs in your community:
- Stay informed about local cases and public health recommendations.
- Communicate promptly with clients who may be affected.
- Help identify vaccination opportunities for unvaccinated clients.
- Provide guidance on isolation protocols for anyone showing symptoms.
- Connect clients with appropriate health care resources if they suspect exposure or infection.
Communicating with Clients: Multilingual Resources
You can use the following strategies to effectively communicate with clients about measles:
1. Provide linguistically accessible information
Many health departments and organizations offer factsheets and educational materials in multiple languages. The following resources are available for client education:
How Contagious is Measles? (Comic Strip)
Available in multiple languages, including Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Simplified, Chinese, Traditional, Dari, English, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Marshallese, Punjabi, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog/Filipino, Tigrinya, Ukrainian, Vietnamese
Measles Information Flyer
Available in multiple languages, including Amharic, Arabic, Burmese, Chinese, Simplified, Chinese, Traditional, Dari, English, French, Hindi, Khmer, Korean, Marshallese, Nepali, Pashto, Portuguese, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Swahili, Tagalog/Filipino, Tigrinya, Ukrainian, Vietnamese
Measles Fact Sheet
Available in multiple languages, including Amharic, Hmong, Oromo, Romanian, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Ukrainian
2. Engage in direct conversations
Take time to discuss measles with clients, especially those who may be at high risk. Ensure they understand the seriousness of the disease and the importance of vaccination.
3. Address common concerns and questions
Be prepared to answer questions about vaccine safety, side effects, and effectiveness. Use culturally appropriate examples and explanations when possible.
4. Help clients access health care services
Assist clients in locating vaccination services, understanding insurance coverage for vaccines, and navigating the health care system to receive preventive care.
Additional Resources
For more information on supporting newcomers’ health needs, explore these Switchboard resources:
For technical assistance related to refugee health, submit a request here.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Trust for America’s Health, King County, USA Today
