You may think measles is just a childhood illness, but did you know adults can get it too? Visit our urgent care for treatment.
When most of us think about measles, we picture chicken pox-era childhood memories or old public health campaigns from decades ago. It’s easy to assume measles is something kids get, recover from, and forget, but the truth is, measles can absolutely affect adults. In some cases, it can hit them even harder than it does children.
Here in Dalton, GA, where families gather at spots like Lakeshore Park, Haig Mill Lake, or the Dalton Green, it’s important to know that this virus can spread quickly in group settings, no matter your age. If you’re not protected, a trip to a crowded event or even a playdate could expose you to measles without warning.
Let’s break down why measles isn’t just a childhood illness and what you should know as an adult living in Dalton.
Why Do People Think Measles Only Affects Kids?
For many years, measles was largely under control in the U.S. thanks to widespread childhood vaccination programs. The MMR vaccine (which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella) is given to children around 12–15 months of age, with a second dose between ages 4–6. Because of this, many adults assume:
- Measles isn’t common anymore
- They were vaccinated as children and are still protected
- Only unvaccinated children are at risk
While these assumptions may have been fairly safe 20 years ago, measles cases have been on the rise in recent years, both globally and in parts of the U.S. And unfortunately, many adults are not as immune as they think.
Yes, Adults Can Get Measles and Here’s Why
You might be at risk as an adult if:
- You never received the MMR vaccine
- This is especially possible if you were born before 1980 or in another country.
- You only received one dose of the vaccine
- A single dose is about 93% effective; two doses are 97% effective.
- You received a version of the vaccine that is no longer considered effective
- This applies to certain people vaccinated between 1963–1967 with an early version of the vaccine.
- Your immunity has waned over time
- While rare, some people lose protection decades after their last shot.
You could also catch measles if you come into contact with someone who’s contagious, which often happens before they even know they’re sick. Adults are just as likely to spread it to others, especially in communal spaces like gyms, workplaces, churches, and schools.
What Are the Symptoms of Measles in Adults?
Measles symptoms are generally the same regardless of age, but adults may experience more severe complications like pneumonia, dehydration, or even hospitalization.
Here’s what to watch for:
- High fever (often over 101°F, and sometimes reaching 104°F)
- Dry cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Fatigue and body aches
- Koplik spots (tiny white spots inside the cheeks, a hallmark of measles)
- Rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body
The rash typically appears 3–5 days after the initial symptoms, which means you’re contagious before you even realize it’s measles.
Should I Get a Measles Vaccine as an Adult?
Great question! The CDC recommends that most adults born after 1957 have proof of immunity to measles, either through documentation of two MMR doses or a blood test showing immunity.
You should definitely consider getting the MMR vaccine if:
- You’re unsure of your vaccination status
- You work in healthcare or education
- You travel internationally
- You’re around children or immunocompromised individuals
- You just want peace of mind
Luckily, AFC Urgent Care Dalton can help. We offer quick access to vaccinations and can help you confirm your immunity status.
Why Measles Matters in a Small Community Like Ours
Dalton may not be a major metropolis, but that doesn’t make us immune to outbreaks. In fact, our close-knit community makes it even more important to stay protected. From busy weekends at the Downtown Market of Dalton to fitness classes at the Dalton Convention Center, people here live, work, and play together every day.
One measles case can quickly affect an entire classroom, office, or church group, especially if those around them aren’t vaccinated.
Bottom Line: Adults Aren’t Off the Hook
Measles is not just a childhood illness. Adults can and do get measles, and some suffer serious complications from it. The good news? It’s almost entirely preventable.
If you’re unsure whether you’re protected, or if you’ve recently been exposed to someone with measles, stop by AFC Urgent Care Dalton. We’ll help you check your immunity, answer your questions, and get you vaccinated if needed – all without a long wait.
Your health matters, and so does the health of your community. Let’s keep Dalton safe, together.
