How do I protect my child from measles

Mary Ann Yahl is senior infection preventionist at Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa, Ariz.

Question: I heard there was a case of measles in Arizona recently. How can I protect my kids?

Answer: Measles is a viral disease of the upper respiratory system and is highly transmissible among unvaccinated or immunocompromised populations.

Measles typically starts with a fever and a cough, conjunctivitis or coryza, followed shortly by a rash on the face that then progresses downward and outward to the trunk and limbs. Infections occurring in immunocompromised populations may present atypically.

Measles is not often seen in the United States, however cases in individuals who have traveled overseas to areas with endemic measles do sporadically occur.

The best way to prevent measles is to be vaccinated with two doses of MMR. If you suspect you or your child might have measles, contact your physician immediately and let him or her know of your concerns. Measles is highly contagious, and your health-care provider will want to make necessary precautions to protect other patients in the area