Measles, or rubeola, is a viral infection of the respiratory system. Measles is a very contagious disease that can spread through contact with infected mucus and saliva. An infected person can release the infection into the air when they cough or sneeze.
The measles virus can live on surfaces for several hours. As the infected particles enter the air and settle on surfaces, anyone within close proximity can become infected.
Drinking from an infected person’s glass, or sharing eating utensils with an infected person, increases your risk of infection.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Symptoms of measles generally appear within 14 days of exposure to the virus. Symptoms include:
- cough
- fever
- red eyes
- light sensitivity
- muscle aches
- runny nose
- sore throat
- white spots inside the mouth
A widespread skin rash is a classic sign of measles. This rash can last up to seven days and generally appears within the first three to five days of exposure to the virus.
A measles rash, which appears as red, itchy bumps, commonly develops on the head and slowly spreads to other parts of the body.
Your doctor can confirm measles by examining your skin rash and checking for symptoms that are characteristic of the disease, such as white spots in the mouth, fever, cough, and sore throat.
If they are unable to confirm a diagnosis based on observation, your doctor may order a blood test to check for the measles virus.
How to treat measles?
There is no prescription medication to treat measles. The virus and symptoms typically disappear within two to three weeks. However, your doctor may recommend:
- acetaminophen to relieve fever and muscle aches
- rest to help boost your immune system
- plenty of fluids (six to eight glasses of water a day)
- humidifier to ease a cough and sore throat
- vitamin A supplements
Complications associated with measles
It is important to receive a measles vaccine because measles can lead to life-threatening complications, such as pneumonia and inflammation of the brain (encephalitis).
Other complications associated with measles may include:
- ear infection
- bronchitis
- miscarriage or preterm labor
- decrease in blood platelets
- blindness
- severe diarrhea
