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News from the Board of Health

What to know about the current Measles outbreak

At the current time, there are over 900 cases of Measles in the US. No cases have been detected to date in Massachusetts, however cases have been confirmed in Vermont, Rhode Island, New York, and New Jersey, as well as elsewhere across the country.

Important information to know:

  • Measles outbreaks occur mostly among unvaccinated individuals

  • Vaccines are safe and provide very effective long-term protection against Measles

  • The risk of getting Measles is extremely low for vaccinated individuals

  • Measles vaccination rates are very high in Massachusetts, though lower in Western Mass

Measles is a highly contagious virus that is spread by respiratory droplets. Approximately 90% of unvaccinated people who are exposed will become ill.

Measles looks and feels like a cold or the flu at first. A cough, high fever, runny nose and red, watery eyes are common. A few days later, a red, blotchy rash starts on the face, and then spreads to the rest of the body. Measles often causes diarrhea and ear infections.

While most people fully recover, serious complications can occur, including death. Measles can cause pneumonia (infection of the lungs) and encephalitis (swelling of the brain), resulting in long term disabilities such as deafness, blindness, seizure disorders and other brain disorders.

Measles is most dangerous for children under 5 years of age, adults over 20 years of age, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.

For more information, go to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website to learn more about the signs and symptoms of infection, the risk of infection based on vaccination status or likely immunity from childhood infection. A printable Fact Sheet can be found on the website.

What to do now:

  • Check your vaccination status

  • Contact your healthcare provider for specific concerns or if you need guidance about vaccination

  • Learn the signs and symptoms of a possible Measles infection

With thanks to the Cambridge Public Health Department for their March 21, 2025 posting on Measles, from which some of this information was taken.

Information from the Conway BOH is focused on our shared public health. Please consult your healthcare provider for your personal healthcare guidance.

Posted: to Board of Health on Thu, May 8, 2025
Updated: Thu, May 8, 2025