On Jul. 18, 1973, the measles and mumps virus vaccine, live (M-M-Vax by Merck) was licensed. Measles (rubeola) is a highly contagious respiratory disease spread by coughing, sneezing, or simply being in close contact with an infected individual. The disease can be spread even when the rash is not visible and most measles cases in the U.S. resolve without complication, though serious complications can occur.