Measles
.png)
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the measles virus (rubeola). It spreads through respiratory droplets and can live in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. While many people recover, measles can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women. Though preventable by vaccination, measles cases are on the rise due to declining immunization rates and international travel-related exposures.
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
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
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.
Healthcare Providers
Symptoms
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
Causes
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.
Treatments
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
Specialties That Treat This Condition
Related Conditions
.png)
