Measles may seem like a distant childhood illness. But it is a highly contagious viral disease that poses a risk for complications, especially for those who are unvaccinated or unsure about their immunity status.
Measles still circulates in many parts of the world and outbreaks can occur. In fact, in a 2024 report, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlighted global increases in measles cases and decreases in vaccination coverage as a “renewed threat” to the U.S. measles elimination status.
For people who do not know if they’ve had measles in the past, or are curious about their immunity status, we’ve got you covered. Read on for information about what measles is, what its symptoms look like in adults and how you can check your immunity status.
What is measles?
Measles is caused by a virus in the paramyxovirus family and spreads through coughing and sneezing, which makes it extremely contagious. It causes a red blotchy rash, high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes. Measles is not a benign childhood illness; it can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, brain swelling and even death. Up to 1 in 5 unvaccinated individuals who contract measles may experience symptoms serious enough to require hospitalization.
What are the symptoms of measles in adults?
Measles can be serious at any age. Complications tend to be most common among children younger than 5 years of age, adults older than 20, pregnant women and those with a compromised immune system from conditions like HIV or cancer.
Adults can experience a high fever, rash and painful cough. They may also have painful, swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, some develop encephalitis, which involves swelling in the brain and can cause headaches, convulsions and coma. During pregnancy, measles can also increase the risk of miscarriage, premature labor and low birth weight in infants.
How can adults check their measles immunity?
The best protection against measles is through vaccination. The typical vaccination schedule is two doses of the combined measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine administered during childhood. However, immunity can wane over the years. Adults may be uncertain if they completed the full vaccine series, so if you’re unsure of your immunity status, a simple blood test can check your antibody levels.
The Labcorp OnDemand Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Immunity Test detects antibodies made by your immune system when previously vaccinated or exposed to measles, mumps or rubella. Simply purchase the test online, visit a local Labcorp patient service center and give a sample. Results are available within 1-2 days in your secure online account. Knowing your immunity allows you to get vaccinated again if needed.
Why does measles immunity matter?
Some employers require evidence of immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella from their staff, including those in healthcare, education and international travel. Obtaining the MMR vaccine before pregnancy if you have not been vaccinated is also essential to mitigate the risk of rubella transmission to the unborn child, preventing congenital rubella syndrome.
Wondering if you’re immune to measles, mumps and rubella? A simple blood test can check your antibody levels. Purchase the Labcorp OnDemand Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Immunity Test to make informed health decisions.
