NM Health Department investigates the first possible case of measles in the state

According to health department officials, the potentially infected person is in Sierra County, southern New Mexico.

The tests will confirm if the person actually has measles.

Measles is a highly contagious virus, especially for those who are not immune, and can be transmitted easily by coughing or sneezing.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, "measles is so contagious that almost 90% of those close to the infected person who are not immunized will be infected as well."

Symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes. Tiny white spots may appear in the mouth two to three days after the onset of symptoms. Three to five days after the onset of symptoms, a rash occurs.

Click here for more information on measles from the CDC.