• Symptoms usually begin 7–14 days after exposure and may include:
  • High fever
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • Tiny white spots inside the mouth (called Koplik spots)
  • A distinctive red, blotchy skin rash that usually starts on the face and spreads downward
• Transmission: Measles spreads through coughing and sneezing, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area.
• Complications can be serious, especially in young children and adults. These may include:
  • Ear infections
  • Diarrhea
  • Pneumonia
  • Encephalitis (brain swelling)
  • Even death in severe cases
• Prevention: The best protection is the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella), usually given in two doses during childhood. It is safe and highly effective.

Why It Matters:

Measles is preventable, but it still causes outbreaks in areas with low vaccination rates. Quick diagnosis and vaccination are key to stopping its spread.