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Measles cases in Northern Virginia and infected travelers passing through Washington-area airports are prompting health officials to urge families to check their vaccination status before spring and summer travel.

Measles is highly contagious, infecting about nine out of 10 exposed people who are unvaccinated or lack immunity. Outbreaks are also occurring elsewhere in the country, including South Carolina, where more than 950 people have become ill.

The combined measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is the most effective protection. Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine prevent illness about 97% of the time.

Children routinely receive their first MMR dose at 12 to 15 months old and a second dose between ages 4 and 6. Anyone missing one or both doses can receive catch-up vaccination at any age. Vaccination also helps protect infants and others who cannot receive the vaccine.

Families traveling internationally or visiting parts of the United States with high measles activity should confirm they are protected. Children 12 months and older should receive one or two doses before traveling, depending on their vaccination history. A healthcare provider may recommend an early dose for infants ages 6 to 11 months based on specific travel plans.

Vaccination can prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death. It may also spare symptom-free people exposed to measles from being quarantined at home from school, work and other activities for as long as 21 or 28 days while officials monitor for symptoms.

Anyone uncertain about their family’s vaccination history should consult a healthcare provider. Some adults vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 may need another dose because a less effective vaccine was used during that period.

Families with additional questions can contact their school public health nurse.