Understanding Measles and Its Contagion

Measles is an exceptionally contagious disease, with the potential to infect 18 other people for every infected individual in an unvaccinated environment. Unlike many diseases, measles can spread through airborne particles that remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. The disease also has a unique characteristic whereby individuals can infect others for up to four days before showing any symptoms, making it particularly difficult to control outbreaks. This high level of contagion poses a significant risk, especially when vaccination rates decline in communities.