Measles Overview:

Measles, also known as rubella, is a respiratory infection caused by a virus. Measles is highly contagious disease which is now relatively rare in the US, as a result of children being vaccinated against it at an early age.

Measles Causes:

Measles is an airborne virus that is transmitted from, someone who has the disease, coughing or sneezing, and spreading the virus.

Measles Symptoms:

Symptoms usually show about 10 days after exposure to the virus and can last up to two weeks. Measles symptoms start with red, watery eyes, coughing and a high fever. Small white spots appear inside the mouth, followed by a reddish brown, raised rash that often starts on the forehead and face spreads downward, to the feet. Measles can lead to severe ear infections, pneumonia and encephalitis. Measles can also cause pregnant women to miscarry, or deliver prematurely. As measles is caused by a virus the disease has to run its course. Fever in children may be treated with acetaminophen. Be sure to drink plenty of clear liquids, to replace bodily fluid loss from high fever and sweats. Relieve respiratory discomfort with the use of a vaporizer. It is very important to get lots of rest and particularly children, who should not go back to school, or mix with other children, until at least 7-10 days after the rash has disappeared and there is no fever.

Call your doctor if you suspect that you, or your child have measles.

To prevent your child from contracting measles, consult with your doctor about immunization schedules.