As parents, we worry about everything from scraped knees to scary fevers, but few things sound more alarming than hearing the word “measles.” While measles might feel like a disease from another era, it’s still very real, very contagious, and in some parts of the world, including developed countries, making a dangerous comeback.
Whether you’re a new parent or just want to keep your family safe and informed, this guide is your all-in-one resource on what measles is, how it spreads, what symptoms to look out for, and most importantly, how to prevent it.
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What Is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the measles virus, also known as rubeola. Before a vaccine was developed in the 1960s, measles was a leading cause of death among children worldwide. Today, it’s still a serious illness, especially for unvaccinated children and adults.
Though many people associate measles with a rash, the infection can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), hearing loss, and even death.
Why Is Measles Still a Threat?
Thanks to vaccines, measles was declared eliminated in many countries. But in recent years, measles outbreaks have returned due to:
- Lower vaccination rates
- Global travel
- Misinformation about vaccine safety
In 2024 alone, the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported a sharp rise in measles cases globally, particularly in areas where immunisation rates have dropped.
How Does Measles Spread?
Extremely easily.
Measles spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours, meaning you can get infected just by being in the same room as someone with measles was in.
Transmission facts:
- 90% of non-immune people exposed to measles will become infected.
- A person is contagious 4 days before and 4 days after the rash appears.
- Measles is more contagious than the flu or COVID-19.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone without immunity is at risk. That includes:
- Unvaccinated children (especially under 5)
- Infants under 1 year (who are too young for the MMR vaccine)
- Pregnant women
- Adults who haven’t been vaccinated or had measles before
- Immunocompromised individuals
Signs and Symptoms of Measles
Measles symptoms appear in stages and usually start 10–14 days after exposure.
Stage 1: Early Symptoms (Prodrome)
- High fever (often above 104°F or 40°C)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
Stage 2: Koplik Spots
- Tiny white spots (like grains of salt) with red bases inside the cheeks, often near the molars
- Appears 1–2 days before the rash
Stage 3: The Measles Rash
- Begins as flat red spots on the face and hairline
- Spreads downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet
- May include raised bumps and coalesce into large blotches
- Rash lasts about 5–7 days
- Fever may spike again with the rash
When to Call the Doctor
If your child has:
- A high fever with a rash
- Recent travel or exposure to someone with measles
- Red eyes, cough, and fatigue before the rash
- Trouble breathing or signs of dehydration
Seek medical advice immediately. Let your healthcare provider know before arriving so they can prevent spreading it to others in the waiting room.
How Serious Is Measles?
While many recover, measles is far from harmless.
Potential complications:
- Ear infections
- Diarrhea
- Pneumonia (occurs in 1 in 20 children with measles)
- Encephalitis (brain swelling; 1 in 1,000 cases)
- Blindness or hearing loss
- Death (1–3 out of every 1,000 infected children)
For pregnant women, measles can cause miscarriage, premature birth, or low birth weight.
Treatment for Measles
There’s no specific antiviral for measles. Treatment focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms and avoid complications.
At-home care includes:
- Rest
- Hydration (fluids, broths, electrolyte drinks)
- Fever reducers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen; never give aspirin to children)
- Vitamin A supplements (recommended in developing countries and by the WHO for severe cases)
Hospitalisation may be needed for serious complications.
How to Prevent Measles
The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is the best way to prevent measles.
MMR Vaccine Schedule:
- First dose: 12–15 months
- Second dose: 4–6 years
- Adults born after 1957 should have at least one dose; two if travelling or in high-risk settings
The MMR vaccine is:
- 97% effective after two doses
- Safe and well-studied with minor side effects (mild fever, rash, sore arm)
If travelling internationally:
- Babies 6–11 months should receive one early dose of MMR before travel, in addition to the routine two doses later.
What If You’ve Been Exposed?
If you or your child is exposed to measles and not vaccinated:
- Call your doctor immediately
- Post-exposure prophylaxis may help:
- MMR vaccine within 72 hours
- Immune globulin (IG) within 6 days for high-risk individuals
You may need to isolate to prevent spreading the virus.
How to Protect Infants and Others Too Young to Vaccinate
Babies under 1 year old can’t receive the standard MMR vaccine, so community immunity (herd immunity) is critical. This means that when enough people are vaccinated, the virus can’t spread easily.
Here’s how to protect your baby:
- Limit exposure to large crowds or travel during outbreaks
- Ensure older siblings and adults are vaccinated
- Keep your baby away from anyone who is sick or has a rash
Common Myths About Measles and Vaccines Debunked
Myth 1: Measles is just a harmless childhood illness
Truth: Measles can cause serious complications and death, especially in young children.
Myth 2: The MMR vaccine causes autism
Truth: This myth began with a now-discredited study. Decades of research show no link between the MMR vaccine and autism.
Myth 3: Natural immunity is better
Truth: Yes, natural infection gives strong immunity, but it comes with a high risk of serious illness. Vaccination offers safe, effective protection.
Caring for a Child with Measles at Home
If your child is diagnosed with measles:
- Keep them isolated from others, especially babies, unvaccinated individuals, and pregnant women
- Encourage quiet play, naps, and comfort
- Use a cool mist humidifier for cough and congestion
- Protect eyes from bright light, as measles can cause sensitivity
- Monitor for signs of complications like laboured breathing or seizures
Always call your doctor with any concerns.
Emotional Support for Parents
Learning your child has measles—or even being exposed—can be overwhelming. It’s normal to feel stressed, scared, or even angry. Try to:
- Stay informed, but not alarmed
- Lean on trusted healthcare providers
- Reach out to friends, family, or parenting groups
- Take breaks for self-care when you can
You’re doing your best, and that’s more than enough.
In Summary: Measles at a Glance
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Cause | Measles virus (rubeola) |
| Spread | Airborne, highly contagious |
| Symptoms | Fever, cough, rash, Koplik spots, red eyes |
| Complications | Pneumonia, encephalitis, death |
| Prevention | MMR vaccine (2 doses) |
| Treatment | Supportive care, hydration, rest |
| At-risk groups | Unvaccinated infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised |
| Vaccine effectiveness | 97% after two doses |
Final Thoughts
Measles is serious, but also preventable. As parents, staying informed and proactive is one of the best ways to protect your children, your community, and yourself. Ensuring timely vaccinations, recognising early
