Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness characterized by fever, cough, runny nose and eyes, and a rash that spreads throughout the body.  It is transmitted through person-to–person contact but can also be spread through the air. The period of contagiousness is estimated to be from five days before the appearance of rash to four days afterward. 

Measles can be prevented with the MMR vaccine.  If you have not had measles or the MMR vaccine, you could potentially catch measles from an infected person.  Individuals at risk for measles include: children too young to be vaccinated, those who have not been vaccinated, those who have not received a second dose of measles vaccine, and those for whom the vaccine failed to elicit a protective immune response (this is very rare).

Treatment for measles is supportive care (rest and fluids) —there is no specific therapy for this illness.  Over 70% of individuals who get measles recover without any medical issues.  However, complications, while rare, do exist.  Groups at risk for complications include immunocompromised individuals (eg, AIDS, cancer) and pregnant women.

If you were near someone who has measles and you have not had the MMR vaccine, or if you think you have measles, call your healthcare provider right away to find out what you should do.

CDC has more information on measles.

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