Measles and Camps
The United States had more cases of measles in 2019 than it had in any other year since 1992. Measles cases may occur in camps. Measles is so contagious that if one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people around them will also become infected if they are not protected. The best protection against measles is two doses of measles vaccine (usually given as the measles-mumps-rubella [MMR] vaccine). Measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccine can also be given to children ages 1 through 12 years. MMR and MMRV vaccines are proven to be very safe and effective. Everyone—including staff and campers—should be protected against measles before leaving for camp.
Information for camps
By following recommended important actions, camp staff and parents of campers can help reduce the chances of measles spreading and causing outbreaks among staff and campers.
Important actions
Measles prevention information for parents and campers
Parents can help protect their children against measles by getting them vaccinated.