Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, most commonly in children. The infection is caused by the measles virus, which spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Fortunately, measles can be prevented through vaccination.
Measles Symptoms
High Fever
A high fever is one of the first signs of measles. A typical human body temperature is between 97.5°F and 98.9°F. If you or someone in your household has a low fever that gradually increases to over 104°F over several days, it’s crucial to watch for additional signs of measles.
Cough
Along with fever, many people with measles experience a dry cough, runny nose, headache, and red, watery eyes. These symptoms can resemble a common cold or upper respiratory infection, but when they persist and are accompanied by a fever, they may indicate measles.
Fatigue and Body Aches
Measles symptoms tend to develop gradually. As the infection progresses, individuals often feel very fatigued and experience muscle aches. While fatigue and body aches are common with many viral infections, they are also frequent in measles cases. This can make daily activities more difficult and may lead to a decrease in appetite, further impacting your health.
Koplik Spots
Koplik spots are small white spots that appear on the inside of the mouth in individuals infected with measles. These spots are an early indicator of measles and usually appear 2-3 days before the characteristic measles rash.
Rash
The measles rash is one of the most notable symptoms of the infection. It typically starts as a red, raised, splotchy rash on the face at the hairline and spreads downwards over the next few days. The rash usually appears about 3-5 days after the onset of symptoms. As the rash progresses, the fever may continue to rise. If you or a family member develop a rash along with other measles symptoms, it’s important to seek medical care promptly. The rash can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days.
Measles Treatment
If you or a family member develop symptoms of measles, especially after contact with someone who has the virus, it’s vital to seek medical attention immediately. Measles is spread through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing, and it can also be contracted through contact with infected nasal or throat secretions, or by touching contaminated surfaces. The virus can spread up to four days before the rash appears and continues for four days after the rash develops. Infected individuals may also release the virus into the air, where it can survive for up to two hours.
Measles complications can be serious, ranging from ear infections and dehydration to pneumonia, blindness, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death. While there is no specific treatment for measles, supportive care such as rest, hydration, and fever reducers can help manage the illness. In some cases, hospitalization may be required.
Preventing Measles
While vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles, you can also protect yourself and your family by avoiding exposure to infected individuals, practicing proper hygiene such as regular handwashing, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is a safe and effective way to prevent the infection.
Managing Your Health at Xpress Wellness Urgent Care
At Xpress Wellness, our team of healthcare professionals is here to help diagnose and manage measles. We can evaluate symptoms, perform necessary lab tests, and guide you through the next steps to ensure proper care. Schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations today.
