Washington state is under a state of emergency as there are 35 reported cases of measles as of Jan. 27. Most of those identified cases involve children, 30 of whom were not immunized against the virus.

Symptoms typically begin with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis). Rashes break out about three to five days later.  If you think you might have been exposed or are experiencing symptoms of measles, call your primary care provider before going to a clinic or hospital to prevent potential exposure to others in waiting rooms. 

John Lynch, medical director of infection control at Harborview Medical Center, says the measles vaccine is the best form of protection available. He discusses the situation in video soundbites.