Search HCOE.org
Search Pages:
Pages include all content, excluding "posts" such as press releases, news alerts, and featured job postings.
Search Posts:
Posts are time-sensitive content such as press releases and news alerts.
Search All Content:
Looking for a specific person? Search the Public Schools Online Directory.
Or search jobs or professional development opportunities.
Measles Resources & Information
Health officials are anticipating the possibility of measles outbreaks coming to California in mid-2025. Nationwide, there has been a significant increase in reported cases compared to the last several years. HCOE is working with local health officials to provide resources for students, families, and school staff.
About Measles
Measles is a contagious viral disease. It’s widespread in many parts of the world, including Europe, Africa and Asia. While measles is eradicated in the U.S., cases around the country and world remind us how important vaccines are.
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine provides the best protection against disease and serious illness. Most measles cases in the U.S. result from international travel. It’s important that you and your family are up to date on all vaccines before traveling abroad.
Measles begins with a fever that lasts a couple of days. It’s followed by:
- A cough
- Runny nose
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Rash
The rash usually appears on the face, along the hairline and behind the ears. Then it affects the rest of the body. Those infected can spread measles about four days before their rash starts to four days afterwards.
Quick Facts
- The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is effective. Two doses provide 97% protection against measles.
- Measles is very contagious. Measles spreads when someone infected speaks, coughs, sneezes or breathes. It can linger in the air up to two hours after the infected person has left.
- Unvaccinated people are at high risk. Roughly 90% of those unvaccinated and exposed to measles will contract the disease.