Measles is a serious, highly contagious disease—but it's preventable with the MMR vaccine. The South Dakota Department of Health offers FAQs for both the public and healthcare providers to help you stay informed and protected.
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For the Public | For Healthcare Providers
Request Immunization Records View Measles Vaccination Clinics
For the Public
What is measles?
Measles is a very contagious illness that spreads from person to person. It is caused by a virus. Learn more about measles.
How serious is measles?
Measles can be very serious. About 20% of people infected with measles need to stay in the hospital. This is more common for children under 5 years of age and people with weakened immune systems. It can lead to pneumonia, brain swelling, pregnancy complications, or even death. Learn more.
How does measles spread?
Measles is spread through the air by infectious respiratory particles from an infected person. The virus can stay in the air for up to two hours. People nearby can breathe in the infectious respiratory particles and get sick. Learn more.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Measles usually starts with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. The fever usually starts at 101°F, but can spike to 105°F. A rash shows up a few days later. The rash usually starts on the face and spreads down to the body and out to the arms and legs. Learn more.
When is a person with measles contagious?
A person can spread measles to others from 4 days before the rash starts until 4 days after the rash appears. Learn more.
Where can I learn more about measles prevention and updates in South Dakota?
Visit doh.sd.gov/diseases/measles for current guidance, prevention tips, and outbreak updates. CDC Outbreaks Information.
How can I protect myself from measles infection?
The measles vaccine (MMR) is the best way to prevent infection and is safer than immunity developed by infection. Learn more about Measles Vaccination.
How well does the measles vaccine work?
The measles vaccine is very effective. One dose protects 93 out of 100 people. Two doses protect 97 out of 100 people.
Can I still get measles if I am vaccinated?
It is rare, but it is possible. No vaccine is 100% perfect. But vaccinated people who get measles usually have a milder illness. In the current outbreak, only 3% of cases have occurred among persons who had one or two doses of the measles (MMR) vaccine.
How long does it take for the vaccine to work?
It takes about 2 weeks after getting the vaccine for your body to build full protection.
Who is considered protected or immune from measles?
You are considered protected or immune if you were born before 1957, got 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, have a blood test showing you are immune, or have already had measles in the past.
Can adults get the MMR vaccine?
Yes. Adults can get the vaccine if they are not already protected.
Is there a risk to getting more than 2 doses of the measles vaccine (MMR)?
No. It is safe to get a third dose if needed, such as when traveling to countries with measles outbreaks.
What are the side effects of the measles vaccine?
Most people who receive the measles vaccine (MMR) don’t experience any side effects. Those that do typically experience symptoms within the first 12 days. Those side effects symptoms might include soreness, swelling, redness at the vaccination side, fever, mild rash, or joint pain or stiffness.
I was vaccinated, but I had cancer and underwent chemotherapy. Am I still protected?
You should talk to your doctor. Chemotherapy can affect your immune system, so your doctor might recommend a blood test or another vaccine dose.
Where can I get the MMR vaccine?
You can get the vaccine at most doctors’ offices, clinics, and some pharmacies. You can also visit VACCINES.GOV and enter your zip code to find locations that offer the vaccine. Call ahead to make sure they have it. You can also check our Vaccination Clinics page for locations and dates.
Is there a concern about running out of the vaccine?
No. There are no known shortages. Most healthcare providers in South Dakota should have access to the vaccine.
How can I get a copy of my vaccine record in South Dakota?
Request Immunization Records
Please note: To request your immunization records, you will need to create an account on the South Dakota Citizens Portal. A valid state-issued ID is required. The South Dakota Department of Health cannot process immunization records requests over the phone.
What should I do if I think I have measles?
Call your doctor or clinic before going in. They will tell you where to go when you arrive to avoid exposing others. Tell them about your symptoms and if you were around anyone with measles.
I was at a place where someone with measles had been. What should I do?
Monitor yourself for symptoms of measles for 21 days after exposure. If you are not immune, you can receive the measles vaccine in the first 72 hours (3 days) after exposure to interrupt the measles infection. If you are not immune and did not receive a dose of the measles vaccine, you should also stay home during the time you are monitoring for symptoms. Some high-risk individuals can get immune globulin in the first 6 days after exposure to decrease the severity of infection. If you develop symptoms of measles, call your doctor immediately and tell them about your exposure to measles and the symptoms you have.
Measles Response Webinar for Healthcare Providers
This session covered clinical guidance, testing protocols, vaccination recommendations, and infection prevention strategies. Experts from across the state walked through the latest updates and CDC-backed resources to support your practice.
For Healthcare Providers
Measles Infection Timeline Measles Rash Evaluation Algorithm
CDC: Clinical Guidance CDC: Be Ready for Measles Toolkit
What are the symptoms of measles in patients?
Measles typically begins with a prodrome of high fever (101°F that can spike to 105°F), cough, coryza (runny nose), and conjunctivitis. These symptoms are followed by a maculopapular rash that usually starts at the hairline and progresses down to the trunk and outward to the arms and legs. The rash typically appears 3 to 5 days after the onset of symptoms.
When is a patient with measles contagious?
A patient with measles is contagious from 4 days before the rash appears to 4 days after rash onset.
What infection control measures should be followed in a clinical setting?
Patients with suspected measles infection should be placed in airborne isolation immediately. The room should not be used for at least 2 hours after the patient leaves. This applies even if the patient was masked, as masking reduces but does not eliminate airborne spread. CDC: Clinical Guidance
How should I handle testing if measles is suspected?
Providers should contact the South Dakota Department of Health at 800-592-1861 for testing guidance. Information on proper specimen types, collection, and transport instructions will be provided, helping prevent false negatives and delays.
Should I call before testing for measles?
Yes. Please notify SDPHL before shipping 605-773-3368. Early consultation ensures proper coordination and response. SD Public Health Laboratory Testing Resources
CDC: Measles Vaccine Recommendations
Can a healthcare worker get an MMR booster if their immunity status is unknown?
Yes. It may be more cost-effective to administer a dose of the MMR vaccine than to perform a titer test.
Are there any concerns about the MMR vaccine supply with increased demand?
Currently, there are no known concerns regarding vaccine availability in South Dakota.
What are the MMR vaccine recommendations for healthcare personnel?
Healthcare workers should have documented evidence of immunity. This includes:
Two doses of MMR vaccine
Laboratory evidence of immunity
Laboratory confirmation of measles
Birth before 1957 (though some facilities still require documentation regardless of age)
Should patients with weakened immune systems be revaccinated?
This depends on the condition and treatment history. For example, patients who received chemotherapy after full vaccination may need titers or additional doses. Clinical evaluation is needed.
Is administering a third dose of the MMR vaccine harmful?
No. There are no known safety concerns with receiving a third dose. A third dose is recommended in certain circumstances, such as international travel for infants between 6 and 11 months of age.
What is the recommended accelerated MMR vaccine schedule for infants during an outbreak or before international travel?
Infants aged 6–11 months may receive one dose of MMR before travel. This dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series, which should begin at 12–15 months and the second at 4–6 years.
Will the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program cover the MMR vaccine in infants 6-11 months of age if they are in a high-risk area?
Yes, it is permissible to use VFC for an early dose of MMR vaccine for infants aged 6–11 months who live in or are traveling to an outbreak area and are VFC-eligible.
Do I need to report suspected cases of measles?
Yes. Measles infections are reportable, even upon suspicion (Category I disease). Early consultation ensures proper coordination and response.
How do I notify the Department of Health that I suspect a case of measles?
Providers should contact the South Dakota Department of Health at 800-592-1861. During nights and weekends, follow the options to reach the on-call staff.
Where can I find Measles Response Webinars to watch?
A recording of the Measles Response Webinar is available on the DOH Provider Education Hub webpage.
What should I do if a healthcare worker is exposed to a confirmed measles case?
The CDC has released a preparedness checklist for medical facilities (and health departments), which can be found here.
How long should an exam room remain empty after a suspected measles patient?
Two hours. The measles virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after the person has left, even if the patient wore a mask.
Where can healthcare providers find resources and training about measles response?
Visit the DOH Provider Education Hub for webinars, clinical guidance, and response tools.
South Dakota Resources
- Measles Infection Timeline
- Measles Rash Evaluation Algorithm
- South Dakota Department of Health, Immunization Program
National Resources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Facts about Measles
- Timeline of Infection
- Measles Treatment Overview for Healthcare Providers
- Be Ready for Measles Toolkit
- Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Measles in Healthcare Settings
- Preventing the Spread of Measles in K-12 Schools
- Measles Vaccine Recommendations
- Guide to Childhood Immunizations
Measles Infection Timeline
Download the Measles Infection Timeline
Reminders for Providers:
- Collect NP swab if within 3 days of rash onset
- Collect serum for serology testing (IgM, IgG)
- Tell the patient to self-isolate for 4 days after the rash onset
- Do not use the patient room for the next 2.5 hours, and disinfect room
- Report immediately upon suspicion
If you suspect measles, please contact the SD DOH immediately for reporting and specimen testing.
Phone: 605-773-3737 | Fax: 605-773-5509