Measles

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after a person leaves an area. Measles can cause serious health complications, including pneumonia, brain damage, and deafness, and can sometimes be deadly. One in four people who get measles in the United States will be hospitalized.

Measles can be especially serious for young children and people who are not vaccinated. 

Symptoms often begin with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a rash that starts at the hairline on your head and spreads down neck, trunk, arms, and legs.

Make Sure You’re Vaccinated

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best protection against measles. Check you or your child’s immunization record in the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR) or with a healthcare provider. Free vaccines may be available for children with Medicaid or no insurance through local health departments.

For questions or help finding vaccination options, please call our office (414) 371-2980. 

Stay Informed

Stay informed about measles outbreaks in your community and along your travel route. Measles cases are increasing, and at this pace, the U.S. could surpass recent historic highs.

*There are currently no measles cases in the North Shore of Milwaukee County. North Shore Health Department would alert the public and give updates if this were to change* Last updated 9/30/2026

Use the Wisconsin Department of Human Services Measles data visuals to see cases by week, age, and or county.

Click link below or scroll down on this page to use data dashboard.

https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/measles.htm

Practice Good Hygiene

Practice frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after being in public spaces. Carry hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes for times when soap and water are not available.   

Avoid Contact with Sick People

Avoid close contact with people who appear to be sick, particularly those actively experiencing coughing or sneezing.  If you were near someone who has measles or who has the signs and symptoms of measles but is undiagnosed, tell your healthcare provider immediately.

Seek Medical Attention

 If you or a family member has measles symptoms or possible exposure, contact your healthcare provider right away and call ahead before visiting. If your child has a fever and rash, please keep them home and consult your healthcare provider. 

CDC- Measles: What to Do If You Get Sick or Exposed

North Shore Health Department’s Role with Measles Cases in the North Shore

The North Shore Health Department would be alerted within 24 hours when there is a report of possible exposure or diagnosis of measles in the North Shore. Since Measles is a category 1 communicable disease (meaning of urgent public health importance and requires rapid intervention), our team would quickly conduct contact tracing. Contact tracing consists of reaching out to those who have had possible exposure to monitor their symptoms, request isolation, or refer to treatment to prevent spread in our communities.