What is Measles (Rubeola)?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the measles virus (MV). The time between exposure to the MV and appearance of symptoms averages 11-12 days. The first symptoms of measles are fever, watery eyes, congestion, and cough. About 3 to 7 days later, a rash develops on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles is contagious from about 4 days before the rash begins through 4 days after the appearance of the rash.
How is Measles Transmitted?
Measles is transmitted through direct contact with infectious droplets on surfaces or in the air. The infectious droplets are spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can stay on surfaces and in the air for up to 2 hours.
Can Measles be Transmitted through Human Milk?
The measles virus is not transmitted through human milk.
Measles antibodies do pass into human milk. This means that if you have been vaccinated or previously infected, your milk contains protective antibodies that help protect your baby.
Because human milk provides passive immunity and supports recovery, continuing to breastfeed is recommended.
If you are breastfeeding and have measles, you can reduce the risk of transmission to your baby by:
- wearing a well-fitted N95 or similar (KF94, FFP2) mask.
- washing your hands thoroughly before touching your baby.
Some families will choose to minimize contact between the infected nursing mother and the baby by expressing milk for bottle or cup feeding. LLLC Leaders can offer tips for protecting breastfeeding and milk production during this time.
Key Takeaways:
- Measles spreads through respiratory droplets, not through human milk.
- Breastfeeding and human milk provide protective antibodies that may help reduce the severity of illness in infants.
- Two doses of MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine provide the best protection against measles. It is safe for a nursing parent to have an MMR vaccination.
Sources
AAP. (2024) Red Book: 2024-2027 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases (33rd ed.). Elk Grove Village, IL: American Academy of Pediatrics
Government of Canada. Measles: What you should know (factsheet)
ttps://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/measles/health-professionals-measles/updated-infection-prevention-control-recommendations-healthcare-settings.html