This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness of childhood causing high fever, cough, red eyes and a spreading rash. It weakens a child's immunity and can lead to pneumonia, diarrhoea and blindness — outbreaks still occur in Nigeria where vaccination coverage dips. Two doses of measles vaccine protect almost completely.
Symptoms
High fever
Cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes
Tiny white spots inside the cheeks
Red-brown rash starting at the hairline and spreading down
Irritability and poor feeding
Diarrhoea in some children
Causes & risk factors
Measles virus spread by coughs and sneezes
Missed measles vaccination
Crowded living conditions during outbreaks
Vitamin A deficiency worsening severity
Treatment & self-care
There is no specific antiviral; care includes fluids, fever control, feeding support and vitamin A given by a health worker, which reduces complications. Keep the child away from others, and watch closely for fast breathing or drowsiness. Ensure every child receives both doses of measles vaccine on schedule.
See a doctor urgently if
Fast or difficult breathing
Drowsiness, convulsions or refusal to feed
Persistent diarrhoea or signs of dehydration
Eye pain or discharge
Measles in a baby under one year or a malnourished child
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Measles?
Early signs often include high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, tiny white spots inside the cheeks. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Measles be treated?
There is no specific antiviral; care includes fluids, fever control, feeding support and vitamin A given by a health worker, which reduces complications. Keep the child away from others, and watch closely for fast breathing or drowsiness. Ensure every child receives both doses of measles vaccine on schedule.
When should I see a doctor about Measles?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: fast or difficult breathing; drowsiness, convulsions or refusal to feed; persistent diarrhoea or signs of dehydration; eye pain or discharge; measles in a baby under one year or a malnourished child.