From the Infection Prevention Team at Rangely District Hospital

Measles may sound like a disease from the past, but it still exists today—and when it appears, it spreads quickly. At Rangely District Hospital, protecting the health of our patients, staff, and community is a top priority. Staying informed is one of the most powerful tools we have.

This is what every family should know about measles—and how we can prevent it together.

What Is Measles?

Measles (also called rubeola) is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air. It can be passed simply by being in the same room as someone who is infected—even if that person has already left.

Important fact: The measles virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours.

Because of this, measles spreads much more easily than many other common illnesses.

How Does Measles Spread?

Measles spreads through:

• Coughing or sneezing
• Talking or breathing in shared indoor spaces
• Close community settings like schools, clinics, and public buildings

If someone is not protected, there is a very high chance of infection after exposure.

Even more concerning—people with measles are contagious before they know they are sick, which makes early spread difficult to detect.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Symptoms usually appear 1–2 weeks after exposure and may include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• A rash that starts on the face and spreads downward

 

Measles can make people feel extremely ill and weak for days to weeks.

 

Why Measles Can Be Serious

Measles is not “just a rash.” It can cause serious health problems, including:

• Pneumonia
• Dehydration
• Ear infections and hearing loss
• Brain swelling (encephalitis)
• Hospitalization

Young children, pregnant individuals, adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk for complications.

 

The Most Important Fact: Measles Is Preventable

The good news is that measles is one of the most preventable infectious diseases.

Vaccination Works

The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is:

• Safe
• Well-studied
• Highly effective

Two doses of the vaccine provide about 97% protection against measles.

Decades of research and real-world use—supported by organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—show that vaccination dramatically reduces illness, hospitalizations, and deaths.

 

Why Community Protection Matters

Measles spreads so easily that about 95% of people need immunity to prevent outbreaks.

Some community members—like infants, cancer patients, or people with certain medical conditions—cannot be vaccinated. They rely on the rest of us for protection.

When vaccination rates drop, measles finds a way back.

 

What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Exposed

If you or your child may have been exposed to measles:

• Call your healthcare provider before coming into a clinic or hospital
• Watch for symptoms for up to 21 days
• Follow guidance from healthcare professionals promptly

Early action can prevent further spread.

 

Our Commitment to Rangely

Rangely District Hospital is committed to:

• Keeping patients and visitors safe
• Maintaining strong infection prevention practices
• Educating our community with accurate, evidence-based information
• Responding quickly to protect public health

Preventing measles protects more than individuals—it protects families, classrooms, workplaces, and our entire town.

 

A Simple Takeaway

✔ Measles spreads easily
✔ Measles can be serious
✔ Measles is preventable
✔ Vaccination saves lives

Together, we can keep Rangely healthy, informed, and protected.