Measles

About Measles

Measles is one of the most contagious infections known. It spreads through the air and causes a high fever followed by a distinctive red rash. While many children recover fully, measles can lead to pneumonia and, rarely, brain inflammation. Two doses of the MMR vaccine give strong, lasting protection.

Symptoms

• High fever, often 40°C or above
• Runny nose, cough and red watery eyes (appearing 2-4 days before the rash)
• Tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots), an early diagnostic sign
• A red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads downward over the body

How it spreads

Airborne, spread through respiratory droplets and can remain in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person has left the room.

Why it's serious

Measles is one of the leading vaccine-preventable causes of death in children worldwide. It is not a harmless childhood illness. Complications can be severe and the virus also temporarily weakens the immune system for months after recovery.

• Pneumonia, the most common serious complication
• Ear infections
• Brain inflammation (encephalitis), occurs in about 1 in 1,000 cases
• Death, still occurs in malnourished or immunocompromised children

Most at risk: Unvaccinated children of any age. Children under 5 and adults over 20 tend to have more severe illness.

How to prevent Measles

Vaccination is the most effective protection. Measles is prevented by:

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Supportive care includes rest, fluids, vitamin A supplements (which reduce severity), and treatment of any bacterial complications with antibiotics.

Common questions