The Department of Health has confirmed two recent cases of the measles in Connecticut.

Doctors say the best way to stay protected and avoid catching the highly contagious viral infection is to get vaccinated.

The first person to contract the measles in the state was an adult from New Haven County. The case was reported at the end of January. News 12 Connecticut has learned that the second case was an adult as well in New Haven County. The cases do not appear to be related.

Experts say symptoms typically begin seven to 21 days after exposure and include a mild fever, runny nose and a sore throat. A rash then appears, usually starting on the person's face and spreading across the body.

Prevention should start young - the disease is extremely serious among children. Health officials recommend two doses of the MMR vaccine - one at 12 to 15 months old, the second at 4 to 6 years old.