Measles is a contagious viral infection that starts with fever, cough, red eyes, and runny nose before a rash appears. In the early stages, you may notice your child feeling unusually tired or sensitive to light.
It is a common childhood illness, but the good news is that it’s preventable. With improved healthcare and vaccinations, measles cases have significantly reduced worldwide. Most children recover well with proper care, and knowing what to expect can make all the difference.
In this guide, you will learn about measles symptoms, causes, how it spreads, and the best ways to care for your child. We’ll also discuss prevention options, including vaccination, to help you make informed choices.
Your child’s health and happiness matter, and we’re here to support you with expert-backed information and guidance. So, let’s get started!
What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. While it was once a common childhood illness, routine vaccination has made it far less widespread today. However, it can still spread quickly in communities with low vaccination rates.
The measles virus lingers in the air for up to two hours, making it easy to catch by breathing in the same space as an infected person.
Symptoms of Measles
Measles symptoms usually appear 8–12 days after exposure, though in some cases, they can appear earlier in some cases or take up to 21 days. The illness starts with mild symptoms before progressing to more noticeable features like a rash. Recognizing the early signs of measles helps with timely care and diagnosis. Let’s have a look at some of the symptoms:
Early Symptoms (First 3–5 Days)
- Runny nose
- Persistent, dry cough
- Tiredness and weakness
- Sore throat and muscle pain
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- High fever (often above 38°C or 101°F)
Distinctive Signs (After Initial Symptoms)
- High fever spike (up to 40°C or 104°F) alongside the rash.
- Koplik’s spots: Tiny white spots on the inner lining of the cheeks, opposite the molars. They appear 2–3 days after the fever starts.
- Measles rash: It starts 3–5 days after the onset of fever and spreads from the face to the rest of the body.
The measles fever duration varies but typically lasts about a week. If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, check with your childcare expert for guidance. Next, let’s look at the causes of measles and how it spreads.
Causes of Measles
Measles is caused by a virus that spreads easily from person to person. Understanding measles causes can help parents take steps toward measles prevention. Here’s how the virus spreads:
- Airborne transmission: The virus spreads when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
- The virus remains in the air and on surfaces: The virus can remain in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.
- Direct contact: Sharing drinks, food, or personal items with an infected person can spread the virus.
- Touching contaminated surfaces: A child can become infected if they touch a surface with the virus and then their mouth, nose, or eyes.
Risk Factors for Measles in Children
Some children are more vulnerable to measles than others. Here are key factors that can increase the risk:
- Incomplete Vaccination: Children who haven’t received both doses of the measles vaccine are more likely to get infected. However, subclinical measles has been observed even after complete vaccination.
- Young Age: Babies under 24 months are at a higher risk since their immune systems are still developing.
- Travel Exposure: Visiting or being around people who have traveled to areas where measles is common can increase the risk.
- Weakened Immunity: Conditions like HIV, AIDS, Leukaemia, or other immune disorders make it harder for the body to fight infections.
- Poor Nutrition: A lack of essential nutrients, especially vitamin A, can make measles symptoms more severe.
- Direct Contact: Being near someone with measles, especially in shared spaces, increases the chances of catching the virus. Hence, isolation is recommended
Being aware of these risks can help you take the right precautions to protect your child.
Prevention of Measles
One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of measles is through vaccination. The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine and the MMRV vaccine (which also protects against chickenpox) play key roles in preventing measles and limiting its spread.
Vaccination Schedule in India:
- 1st dose: 9–12 months
- 2nd dose: 16–24 months
- Booster: 4–6 years
Why Vaccinate?
- Prevents outbreaks and community transmission.
- Protects newborns and immunocompromised individuals (those with weakened immune systems due to medical conditions or treatments) who cannot get vaccinated.
Management and Treatment of Measles
Since measles is a viral infection, antibiotics are not effective. However, doctors may prescribe them if complications of measles, such as ear infections or bacterial Pneumonia develop. Studies show that vitamin A supplements reduce measles-related complications in children with severe symptoms.
Home Care for Measles
- Plenty of rest supports the immune system.
- Gargling with salt water may ease a sore throat.
- Staying hydrated with fluids prevents dehydration.
- Keeping the room dim can help with light sensitivity.
- Acetaminophen or NSAIDs can help with fever, aches, and pains.
When to Seek Medical Help?
- If your child has trouble drinking fluids, difficulty breathing, or a fever that lasts more than four days, consult a doctor for further treatment.
- In some cases, children with measles may need hospital care, especially if complications like Pneumonia or Encephalitis (brain fever) arise.
Note: Always consult your paediatric doctor before starting any treatment for one-on-one personalised guidance.
Conclusion
Measles spreads quickly, but staying alert can help you protect your child. Pay close attention to early symptoms, such as fever, cough, and red eyes, before the rash appears. Tracking any unusual discomfort and regularly checking your child’s skin can help with early detection. If your little one seems unusually tired or unwell, don’t wait; consult a paediatrician right away.
Caring for your child’s health goes beyond treatment. Strengthening their immunity with good nutrition, ensuring proper rest, and keeping their vaccinations up to date can help prevent complications of measles.
At BabyMD, we support you with expert paediatric consultations, vaccination guidance, and 24/7 care advice. Whether you need help with measles diagnosis, home care, or understanding how to prevent measles, we’re just a call away.
Your child’s health is precious. Stay informed, stay prepared, and schedule a consultation with BabyMD whenever you need expert care!
