Measles: check your status, protect yourself

Measles is a highly contagious, serious disease caused by a virus. It spreads through the air when infected people cough and sneeze. It remains one of the leading causes of death among young children globally, despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine. Approximately 122000 people died from measles in 2012 — mostly children under the age of five.
The best protection against measles is through immunisation. The measles vaccine is often given in a combination shot that also protects against rubella and/or mumps. It is equally effective in the single or combined form. It is a matter of joy that measles vaccine is included in the national expanded programme of immunisation (EPI).
If you have not had measles or been vaccinated, you may be at risk. Getting immunised with 2 doses of measles vaccine gives lifelong protection. By getting vaccinated, you ensure that you and your family are protected in the event of a measles outbreak at home or while travelling.