Amid a measles outbreak in Texas, this local pharmacist answers the most frequently asked questions

With measles cases continuing to surge in Texas, many are seeking guidance from trusted healthcare voices on the best way to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Walgreens Regional Healthcare Director, Greater Texas, Rick Fernandez, RPh, answers the most pressing questions about measles and explains why getting the MMR vaccine is so important.

What is measles and why is there an outbreak?

According to the CDC, measles is one of the most contagious diseases — up to 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people with close contact to a measles patient will develop measles.¹ Measles is caused by a virus that can quickly spread through a person's mouth or nose when they cough, sneeze or breathe. The infectious droplets can linger in the air for up to two hours even after an infected person leaves the area.

"We continue to see the largest outbreak of measles in the Texas area, and an increase in demand for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine," said Fernandez. "If you haven't already, getting the MMR vaccine continues to be the single most important thing you can do to protect yourself and those around you."

What is the MMR vaccine and who should get it? Do people need a booster?

The MMR vaccine is a 3-in-1 vaccine that protects against measles, mumps and rubella.² Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine — first at 12–15 months and again at 4–6 years. Teens and adults should also receive any missed doses to stay current with their MMR vaccinations and if needed, can verify they're up to date with their pharmacist or healthcare provider.

"The MMR vaccine has been safely used for more than 50 years and is highly effective — in fact, two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles," said Fernandez.² "If you have any questions or concerns about the MMR vaccine, talk to your local Walgreens pharmacist — we're here to help patients navigate questions about immunizations so they can feel comfortable and confident in the safety and efficacy of this life-saving vaccine."

Walgreens offers flexible vaccination appointments, including nights and weekends, and walk-ins are welcome. To schedule an MMR vaccination appointment in English or Spanish, use the Walgreens app, visit Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine or call 1-800-WALGREENS.

How can individuals spot measles and what should they do if they're symptomatic?

Measles symptoms can appear one to two weeks after virus exposure. Common symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery and red eyes, and a rash.¹ The rash typically appears 14 days after exposure to the virus, spreading from the head to the trunk and lower limbs. Measles can be serious and even fatal, particularly for small children or individuals with weakened immune systems.

"If you suspect you or a family member may have measles or were exposed to the virus, contact your health provider or your local health department," said Fernandez. "For those who want to protect themselves and others in a community affected by an outbreak, our pharmacists are experts who, in collaboration with the individual, can review their immunization history and provide personalized recommendations for the best next steps."

Walgreens: Your partner in health

As measles cases continue to rise, getting the MMR vaccine is the most important thing you can do to help protect yourself and those around you from measles. The vaccine is available at Walgreens locations nationwide for children and adults who've never had measles and were never vaccinated.

If you have any questions, our expert pharmacists are here to help navigate the latest vaccination guidance and what is recommended for you and your loved ones.

Learn more at Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine.

Sources:

¹ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Clinical Overview of Measles." July 15, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/clinical-overview/index.html#cdc_clinical_overview_pre_risk-prevention

² Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Measles Vaccination." January 17, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/measles/vaccines/index.html