Measles Is Highly Contagious

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. According to the CDC’s measles guidance, the virus can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. People without immunity are especially vulnerable after close exposure.

Common Measles Symptoms

Measles commonly begins with high fever, cough, runny nose and red or watery eyes. A red, blotchy rash typically follows. The CDC’s symptom guide explains that symptoms usually begin about 7–14 days after infection, while the rash generally appears several days after the first symptoms.

What Should You Do If You Think You Have Measles?

If you or your child has symptoms compatible with measles, do not simply walk into a crowded waiting room. Maryland Department of Health advises people with symptoms or a possible exposure to call their healthcare provider before arriving so infection-control precautions can be arranged.

Can Urgent Care Help?

A healthcare provider can review symptoms, vaccination history, recent travel and possible exposure and determine the appropriate next step. Laboratory confirmation can include measles RT-PCR and antibody testing. If you need local guidance, contact EZMED Primary & Urgent Care in Timonium before arriving so the clinical team can determine the safest way to evaluate you.

Convenient Care for Timonium and Nearby Communities

EZMED serves patients from Timonium, Lutherville, Towson, Cockeysville, Hunt Valley and surrounding Baltimore County communities. For routine urgent-care needs that are appropriate for online scheduling, patients can use EZMED’s online check-in. If measles is suspected, however, call first rather than entering the waiting room unannounced.