Symptoms of Measles

Measles usually starts like a bad cold and then a rash follows. A doctor should see any child with fever and rash.

Early symptoms (days 1 to 4)

• High fever, often up to 40 degrees C (104 F)
• Cough, runny nose and sneezing
• Red, watery eyes and sensitivity to light
• Tiredness and loss of appetite

Koplik spots

Tiny white spots with a red ring inside the mouth, usually on the inner cheeks, appear 2 to 3 days after the first symptoms. A doctor can use them to recognise measles.

The rash (day 3 to 5)

A flat red rash starts on the face at the hairline and spreads down to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet. Spots may join together. Fever often rises again when the rash appears. The rash fades after about 5 to 7 days in the same order it came.

Emergency signs - go to a hospital (112 or 102)

• Fast or difficult breathing
• Fits, confusion, extreme drowsiness or a stiff neck
• Refusing feeds, very little urine, or signs of dehydration
• Earache, severe diarrhoea or persistent vomiting
• Fever lasting beyond 3 days after the rash appears
• Any suspected measles in a baby under 12 months, a pregnant woman or a person with weak immunity

Ayurvedic view

Fever with rash is discussed under Pitta-Rakta conditions. This view is interpretive and does not replace diagnosis.

Symptoms in babies and adults

Babies may be very irritable, feed poorly and have a high fever. Adults often feel sicker than children, with bad headache and body pain. Both groups should see a doctor early. Do not give home remedies to infants in place of medical care.