Overview
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that mainly affects children but can occur at any age. The illness usually lasts 7 to 10 days. Many people think of measles as just a mild rash and fever, but it can lead to serious health complications, especially in children under five years old who are not vaccinated.
Cause
Measles is caused by the measles virus, a member of the paramyxovirus family. Once it enters the body, it multiplies in the nose and throat before spreading throughout the bloodstream.
Incubation Period
After exposure to the virus, symptoms usually appear within 11 to 12 days. The rash typically develops about 14 days after infection.
How Measles Spreads
The virus lives in the nose and throat of an infected person. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or breathing contaminated air droplets.
The virus can also survive on surfaces for several hours. Touching a contaminated surface and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes can lead to infection.
A person with measles can spread the virus from the start of symptoms until four days after the rash appears.
Symptoms and Stages
Measles develops in stages over a period of two to three weeks:
1. Early Symptoms (Prodromal Stage)
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Mild to moderate fever
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Persistent cough
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Runny nose and sore throat
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Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
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Small white-gray spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
These symptoms last 2–4 days before the rash appears.
2. Rash Stage
A red, blotchy rash appears behind the ears and along the hairline, then spreads to the face, arms, trunk, thighs, legs, and feet.
As the rash spreads, the fever may rise.
The rash usually fades in the same order it appeared — starting from the face and ending at the legs.
When to See a Doctor
Contact a doctor immediately if:
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You have been exposed to someone with measles
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You or your child develop a fever and rash
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You suspect measles symptoms after travel or exposure
Complications
While most people recover, measles can lead to serious complications, including:
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Ear infections (otitis media) — most common
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Diarrhea
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Pneumonia
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Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain membranes)
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Pregnancy complications such as miscarriage or premature birth
High-Risk Groups
Measles can be severe for:
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Children under one year old
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Malnourished children
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Pregnant women
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People with weakened immune systems, such as those with leukemia or HIV
Treatment
There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Symptoms usually improve within 7 to 10 days. Supportive care includes:
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Plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
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Rest in a dimly lit room to reduce eye sensitivity
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Fever reducers (as prescribed)
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Antibiotics, if secondary bacterial infections occur (like pneumonia or ear infection)
Prevention
The best way to prevent measles is vaccination with the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella).
It is a routine childhood immunization given in two doses:
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First dose at 12 months
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Second dose at 15 months
If someone is exposed to measles and not immune, post-exposure protection can be given:
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MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure
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Immune globulin (IG) within six days of exposure
Who Should Not Receive the Vaccine
The MMR vaccine is not recommended for:
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Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy within four weeks
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People with severe allergic reactions to a previous MMR dose or its components
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Those with severely weakened immune systems or on high-dose steroids
Conclusion
Measles is a preventable but serious viral disease. With proper vaccination, early detection, and supportive care, its spread and complications can be significantly reduced.
Raising awareness and maintaining high vaccination rates remain the most effective public health strategies to eliminate measles worldwide.
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