Measles, or rubeola, is a highly contagious, acute viral infectious disease caused by the measles virus. Some people think of measles as just a rash and fever that clears up in a few days; however, measles can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5-years-old.
The best protection against measles is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The MMR vaccine provides long-lasting protection against all strains of measles.