Measles: What You Need to Know

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious viral infection that can be a significant health risk, especially to young children. Despite being preventable, measles continues to affect communities worldwide.

Understanding the key aspects of measles, including its early and later symptoms, how it spreads, potential complications, and the importance of prevention will help you take proactive steps to safeguard your health and those around you.

What is Measles?

Measles is a viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is caused by the measles virus, which spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, making it highly transmissible.

Measles is not just a childhood illness; it can affect people of all ages, especially those who have weakened immune systems. The disease can spread rapidly in areas where people are in close contact, such as schools, daycare centers, and public gatherings. The initial symptoms of measles, which include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, can often be mistaken for a common cold. However, as the disease progresses, more distinctive signs, such as Koplik spots (tiny white spots inside the mouth) and a widespread rash, become apparent.

How Does Measles Spread?

Measles is an extremely contagious disease that is primarily spread through the air. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, tiny droplets containing the virus are released into the air. These droplets can be inhaled by others, leading to new infections. The virus can also settle on surfaces, where it remains active and capable of causing infection for up to two hours. This means that even after an infected person has left an area, the virus can still pose a risk to others who enter the same space.

Approximately 90% of people who are close to an infected person and are not immune will become infected. This high transmission rate underscores the importance of understanding how measles spreads and taking appropriate measures to prevent its spread.

Symptoms of Measles

Measles typically begins with mild cold-like symptoms. There are common symptoms to watch for.

Early Symptoms

• Fever: Often one of the first signs, the fever can be mild to high.
• Cough: A persistent cough that may worsen over time.
• Runny Nose: Similar to a cold, a runny nose is common.
• Red Eyes: Also known as conjunctivitis, causing discomfort and sensitivity to light.
• Sore Throat: Accompanied by the other symptoms, a sore throat is frequent.

Later Symptoms

• Koplik Spots: Tiny white spots inside the mouth, often appearing before the rash.
• Rash: A red-brown rash that starts at the hairline and spreads downward across the body. This rash typically appears 3-5 days after the initial symptoms and can last for several days.
• High Fever: The fever can spike, sometimes exceeding 104°F.

Measles is different than the common cold and can be particularly dangerous for young children. It can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and even death.

While the infection typically begins with symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, it will be followed by a distinctive red-brown rash that starts at the hairline and spreads downward across the body.

What to Do If You Suspect You or Your Child Has Measles

If you suspect that you or your child has measles, it's important to act quickly to manage the illness and prevent its spread. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Monitor Symptoms:

Keep an eye on early signs such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and rash. If these symptoms appear, it could be indicative of measles.

2. Seek Medical Advice:

If you think you have measles, seek medical care immediately. Symptoms can worsen over time, and complications can develop. Contact your healthcare provider immediately — do not visit them until you have fist called them to limit exposure to others.

3. Isolate:

Measles is highly contagious. Follow the advice of your healthcare provider and local health authorities regarding isolation. This helps prevent the spread of the virus to others.

4. Avoid Public Places:

Stay home and avoid public places, including schools, daycare centers, and workplaces, until a healthcare provider confirms that it is safe to return.

5. Follow Medical Instructions:

Adhere to any treatment plans or instructions provided by your healthcare provider. This may include rest, hydration, and medications to manage symptoms.

6. Notify Contacts:

Inform people you have been in close contact with about the potential exposure so they can monitor their health and seek medical advice if necessary. You can report your infection to the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

If you have any concerns or questions, you should reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

Measles Prevention

Measles prevention is vital before it starts and spreads throughout the community. There are steps you can take to prevent measles:

1. Importance of Vaccination:

Vaccination is a key preventive measure against measles. It helps protect individuals from severe complications associated with the disease, such as pneumonia and encephalitis. High vaccination rates also contribute to community immunity, reducing the overall spread of measles and protecting those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

2. Avoid Close Contact:

If you know someone has measles, avoid close contact with them to reduce the risk of transmission. Measles spreads through the air via droplets from coughs, sneezes, or talking.

3. Practice Good Hygiene:

Regularly wash your hands with soap and water and use hand sanitizer, especially after being in public places or touching surfaces that may be contaminated. Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth, to prevent the virus from entering your body.

4. Disinfect Surfaces:

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops, to reduce the presence of the virus.

5. Stay Informed:

Keep up to date with information from health authorities about measles outbreaks in your area. This can help you take timely precautions and seek medical advice if needed.

6. Boost Your Immune System:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep to support your immune system in fighting off infections.

You can help reduce the risk of contracting and spreading measles. Staying informed and practicing good hygiene are essential steps in protecting yourself and those around you.

Stay Informed and Safe

Measles is a serious and highly contagious disease, but with the right knowledge and preventive measures, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Understanding the symptoms, how it spreads, and the importance of prevention can make a big difference in keeping your community healthy.

If you have any questions about measles or would like to receive a measles vaccine, speak to your OU Health primary care provider for more information.