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Measles
 
Measles is a viral infection that causes a rash, high fever, and cough. Measles could lead to problems such as a sore throat, ear infection, diarrhea, or pneumonia. Sometimes, measles may lead to inflammation of the brain and seizures. Although immunization is recommended, many children get measles each year because they have not been vaccinated.

Measles is spread through the air by coughing or sneezing. It can be transmitted from 4 days before the rash appears to 4 days after. Measles usually lasts between 10 and 14 days.

What are the symptoms?
Symptoms occur 10 to 12 days after exposure. The infected person will first get a fever that can peak as high as 103 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit (39.4 to 40.6 degrees Celsius) and last 2 to 4 days. The fever is followed by symptoms such as a dry cough, runny nose, red and swollen eyes, nasal congestion, sneezing, and white spots inside the mouth. The rash usually starts on the face and neck, then spreads down the trunk and out to the arms and legs. The rash lasts 5 to 6 days. It will disappear in

How are measles treated?
To help with symptoms, you can:
  • Add moisture to the air with a vaporizer to ease symptoms. Nose drops and cough medicine, may help relieve a stuffy nose and cough.
  • Give your child plenty of fluids to drink.
  • Dim bright lights if your child's eyes are sensitive, and

Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen to control fever. Children under 18 years of age should not take aspirin or products containing salicylate (such as Pepto-Bismol) because of the risk of Reye's syndrome unless recommended by a health care provider. Giving a sponge back with lukewarm water may help bring down a high fever.

Keep your child away from people who have not had measles or have not had a vaccination for measles.

The measles, mumps, rubella, or MMR, vaccine is usually given to children in a series of 2 shots. The first shot is given between 12 and 15 months of age and the second between 4 and 6 years of age. Children or adults who have not had measles or been vaccinated should contact their health care provider. The vaccine may also be given within 3 days after exposure.

When should I call my child's health care provider?
Call your health care provider if your child becomes listless or has a high fever that lasts more than 4 days. Also call if the child has a severe headache, earache, or a cough that lasts 4 to 5 days with yellow or green mucous. Seek emergency medical treatment if the child has trouble breathing or has seizures.




  Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

  HIA File CHL3734F.HTM Release 9.0/2006. Copyright © 2006 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subdiaries. All Rights Reserved.


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