Measles

Symptoms of measles usually appear 7–14 days after exposure and often begin with:

• High fever (often over 104°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• Fatigue or irritability
  Within a few days, a distinctive red rash starts at the hairline and spreads downward to the rest of the body. Other key signs:
• Koplik spots: small white spots inside the mouth (unique to measles)
• Skin rash: starts flat and red, becoming raised and possibly itchy

Measles is caused by the measles virus, a paramyxovirus. It’s transmitted:

• Through airborne droplets from coughing/sneezing
• By touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
  Unvaccinated individuals are at extremely high risk. The virus is so contagious that 90% of non-immune people exposed will become infected.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles, but care focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Common approaches include:

• Fever reducers: such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage high temperatures
• Hydration: drinking fluids or using IV fluids if dehydrated
• Vitamin A supplements: recommended especially for children to reduce severity and complications
• Isolation: to prevent further transmission, especially in schools or healthcare settings
• Hospitalization: may be needed for pneumonia, encephalitis, or dehydration complications