Measles

Symptoms

Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.

Cold-like symptoms

The first symptoms of measles include:

• a high temperature
• a runny or blocked nose
• sneezing
• a cough
• red, sore, watery eyes

Spots in the mouth

Small white spots may appear inside the cheeks and on the back of the lips a few days later. These spots usually last a few days.

The measles rash

A rash usually appears a few days after the cold-like symptoms.

The rash starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body.

The spots of the measles rash are sometimes raised and join together to form blotchy patches. They're not usually itchy.

The rash looks brown or red on white skin. It may be harder to see on brown and black skin.

Treatment Options

Measles usually starts to get better in about a week.

After seeing a GP, there are things you can do to help ease the symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading the infection.

It can help to:

• rest and drink plenty fluids, such as water, to avoid dehydration
• take paracetamol or ibuprofen for a high temperature
• give your child paracetamol or ibuprofen if they're distressed or uncomfortable – check the packaging or leaflet to make sure the medicine is suitable for your child, or speak to a pharmacist or GP if you're not sure

• use cotton wool soaked in warm water to gently remove any crusts from your or your child's eyes
  

Prevention Tips

Measles is spread when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes.

You’re infectious from when you first have symptoms (around 4 days before the rash appears) until 4 days after you get the rash.

There are things you can do to reduce the risk of spreading or catching measles:

• wash your hands often with soap and warm water
• use tissues when you cough or sneeze
• throw used tissues in the bin

• do not share cutlery, cups, towels, clothes, or bedding
  

When To See A Doctor

You should urgently see a doctor if:

• you think you or your child may have measles
• your child is under 1 year old and has come into contact with someone who has measles
• you've been in close contact with someone who has measles and you're pregnant or have a weakened immune system
• you or your child have a high temperature that has not come down after taking paracetamol or ibuprofen
• you or your child have difficulty breathing – you may feel more short of breath than usual
• your baby or young child is not feeding well, or taking less feeds or fluids than usual
• you or your child are peeing less than usual (or your baby has fewer wet nappies)
• you or your child feels very unwell, or you're worried something is seriously wrong

Measles can spread to others easily. Call your GP clinic before you go in. They may suggest talking over the phone.