What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious virus. It causes a widespread rash, fever and flu-like symptoms and can lead to dangerous complications and death.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Symptoms of measles appear 7 to 14 days after infection. Measles symptoms include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Congestion
- A rash that begins on the forehead and spreads to the feet
- Red, watery eyes
- Headache
The first symptoms of measles that appear 7 to 14 days after infection are high fever, congestion and red, watery eyes. The rash appears 3 to 5 days after measles symptoms begin. Read more about what parents should know about measles.
What does a measles rash look like?
A measles rash is a red, blotchy rash that begins on the forehead and spreads down the body to the feet. The rash may be flat or a little raised. Spots may also join together. On darker pigmented skin, the rash may appear purple or may be harder to see. The rash is not itchy.
What complications can happen from measles?
A measles infection can cause complications like:
- Pneumonia
- Blindness
- Ear infections
- Swelling of the brain
- Bronchitis
- Death
How do you get measles?
If your child has not received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, they can get infected with measles by:
- Being around someone with measles
- Touching a surface that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes
Can measles be prevented?
Measles can be prevented with two doses of the MMR vaccine. If you have questions about the vaccine or aren’t sure if your child has received two doses, talk to their doctor.
How is measles treated?
If your child has a diagnosed case of measles without complications, you can treat at home with:
- Pain relievers
- Fluids
- Rest
Can vitamin A be used to treat or prevent measles?
Vitamin A cannot be used to prevent measles. Your child’s doctor may recommend giving them vitamin A if they have a confirmed case of the measles. This is because the virus lessens the amount of vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A can help keep the virus from getting more severe. Vitamin A cannot treat measles. Do not give your child doses of vitamin A without seeing their doctor. Too much vitamin A can cause liver damage, coma and death.
What should I do if I think my child has the measles?
If you think your child has the measles or they have not received both doses of the MMR vaccine and have been around someone with the virus, call their doctor.
What is Akron Children’s doing to minimize the risk of spreading measles?
Akron Children’s infection control and prevention team, as well as its clinical leaders, are closely monitoring measles cases and outbreaks in Ohio. We have implemented a protocol for suspected measles cases in patient care settings and are working to educate patients and families on the symptoms of measles as well as the importance of vaccination. If your child is showing symptoms and you want to take them to a pediatrics office, Urgent Care or Emergency Room, call ahead and let the staff know. They’ll tell you what to do when you arrive.
When should I get emergency care with the measles?
Go to the emergency room if you child has these symptoms from measles:
- A hard time breathing or if your child’s mouth looks blue
- Your child is peeing less than usual, when they cry there are no tears or if their mouth is very dry
- Your child is confused, is hard to wake up or has changes in behavior
Call ahead before you go to the emergency room and let the person on the phone know your child needs to be seen for suspected or confirmed measles. Staff will tell you what to do once you arrive.
Find a provider for your child
Need to make an appointment? If your child needs to be seen for measles, call ahead and let the staff know. They’ll tell you what to do when you arrive.
