The Oklahoma State Department of Health has reported two cases of measles linked to an outbreak originating in Texas and New Mexico. While the situation remains under close monitoring, health experts emphasize the importance of understanding the symptoms of measles to help prevent its spread.

Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that's airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is preventable through vaccines, and has been considered eliminated from the U.

Measles is unlike other childhood viruses. In severe cases, it can cause pneumonia. About 1 in 1,000 patients develops encephalitis.