Is getting measles dangerous?
Measles was once a very common childhood infection. Measles is now uncommon because almost all older adults have already had the disease, and younger adults and most children older than age 1 year have been vaccinated. Although most people with measles recover without further problems, it is more common for children younger than 5 years of age and adults 20 years of age and older to experience complications. Diarrhea and ear infections are the most common complications. Pneumonia occurs in 6% of those with measles. Measles in pregnancy increases the risk of premature labor, miscarriage, and low-birth-weight infants. Measles is most life-threatening among young children and adults. The most common cause of death in children is pneumonia; in adults its encephalitis (infection of the brain).
