Measles

Rubeola, known as measles, is an illness caused by one of the most contagious viruses.

In some cases, measles may cause severe illnesses including pneumonia or encephalitis. While encephalitis is rare, this swelling of the brain requires hospitalization and intensive treatment. It can cause seizures, hallucinations, permanent brain damage, blindness, hearing loss, and memory loss.

Those at increased risk of serious illness are:

• Pregnant women who catch measles are at risk of premature birth or have a low-birth-weight baby.
• People with compromised immune systems, such as from leukemia and HIV infection, may be especially at risk for measles complications.
• Children and adults that have underlying health conditions
• Infants under 12 months

Symptoms

Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus and include:

• High fever up to 105° F
• Red, watery eyes
• Cough
• Runny nose

The most common symptom of measles is a rash that often develops on the face and neck, but can spread to the entire body. Measles rash appears 3 to 5 days after the first symptoms.

Transmission

• Those with a prior history of infection or who have received the full series of the Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) immunization are 98% protected and are unlikely to contract measles.
• Measles spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
• Measles can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
• If 10 individuals without immunity come in contact with measles, up to 9 of them will contract the disease.

Treatment

Since measles is caused by a virus, there is no specific treatment. Medications can help manage symptoms. However, based on exposure time frame, susceptible contacts may be candidates for post-exposure prophylaxis through MMR or immunoglobulin through their health care provider. Vitamin A supplementation may be beneficial when administered under the supervision of your health care provider.

If You Suspect Measles

First, call your health care provider, facility, or county health department and let them know your concerns. DO NOT go directly to your health care provider’s office or facility, or the county health department.

• A health care provider or a county health department official will give you instructions on getting seen in a timely manner, and how you can avoid exposing other people to measles.