Measles
Key Takeaways
- Measles is a highly contagious viral infection spread through coughs, sneezes, and contaminated surfaces.
- Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash, with complications like pneumonia and encephalitis.
- The MMR vaccine provides over 99% protection against measles, with two doses recommended for children and certain adults.
What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through coughing and sneezing. It can cause serious complications, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. The infection can be severe, leading to hospitalisation, and in rare cases, can be fatal.
How is Measles Spread?
Measles is one of the most infectious viruses and spreads through:
- Droplets from coughs and sneezes (can remain in the air and on surfaces for up to 2 hours)
- Direct contact with an infected person
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face
People with measles are contagious from 4 days before the rash appears until 4 days after it fades.
Treatment for Measles
There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Most cases improve within 7-10 days, but symptoms can be managed with:
- Plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce fever and ease discomfort (always check suitability for children)
- Rest to allow the immune system to recover
- Cool compresses & humidifiers to relieve cough and congestion
- Avoid bright lights if eyes are sensitive
- Vitamin A supplements (only advised for children under medical supervision)
Signs & Symptoms of Measles
Measles symptoms typically develop 7-14 days after exposure to the virus and include:
- High fever (often over 38°C)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Sore throat
- Fatigue and loss of appetite
- Koplik’s spots – Small white spots inside the mouth
- Measles rash – Begins on the face and behind the ears before spreading across the body. The rash consists of flat red spots that may merge together.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Call your GP or seek urgent medical care if:
- You or your child have difficulty breathing or severe coughing
- Symptoms worsen instead of improving after a few days
- There is persistent high fever (above 39°C) despite medication
- You notice confusion, drowsiness, or seizures
- There is severe ear pain (may indicate an ear infection)
- The rash does not fade or is accompanied by bruising
- You are pregnant and have been exposed to measles
Measles can lead to complications such as pneumonia, ear infections, diarrhoea, and encephalitis (brain inflammation), so early medical intervention is important.
Aftercare & Preventing the Spread
- Stay home for at least 4 days after the rash appears to prevent spreading the virus.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands frequently to reduce transmission.
- Avoid contact with vulnerable individuals, such as babies, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly to prevent further spread.
Measles Prevention
The best protection against measles is the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella), which is part of the routine childhood immunisation programme in Ireland. Two doses provide over 99% protection against measles.
Who Should Get the MMR Vaccine?
- Children receive the first dose at 12 months and the second dose at 4-5 years
- Adults born after 1978 who have not had two doses of MMR should get vaccinated
- People planning pregnancy should ensure they are fully vaccinated
- Unvaccinated healthcare workers and international travellers are advised to check their MMR status
→Learn more about measles from the HSE
→For expert advice, visit your nearest McCauley Pharmacy.
What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through coughing and sneezing. It can cause serious complications, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. The infection can be severe, leading to hospitalisation, and in rare cases, can be fatal.
Signs & Symptoms of Measles
Measles symptoms typically develop 7-14 days after exposure to the virus and include:
Early Symptoms (First 3-5 Days):
- High fever (often over 38°C)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Sore throat
- Fatigue and loss of appetite
Later Symptoms (After 3-5 Days):
- Koplik’s spots – Small white spots inside the mouth
- Measles rash – Begins on the face and behind the ears before spreading across the body. The rash consists of flat red spots that may merge together.
How is Measles Spread?
Measles is one of the most infectious viruses and spreads through:
- Droplets from coughs and sneezes (can remain in the air and on surfaces for up to 2 hours)
- Direct contact with an infected person
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face
People with measles are contagious from 4 days before the rash appears until 4 days after it fades.
Treatment for Measles
There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Most cases improve within 7-10 days, but symptoms can be managed with:
- Plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce fever and ease discomfort (always check suitability for children)
- Rest to allow the immune system to recover
- Cool compresses & humidifiers to relieve cough and congestion
- Avoid bright lights if eyes are sensitive
- Vitamin A supplements (only advised for children under medical supervision)
When to Seek Medical Advice
Call your GP or seek urgent medical care if:
- You or your child have difficulty breathing or severe coughing
- Symptoms worsen instead of improving after a few days
- There is persistent high fever (above 39°C) despite medication
- You notice confusion, drowsiness, or seizures
- There is severe ear pain (may indicate an ear infection)
- The rash does not fade or is accompanied by bruising
- You are pregnant and have been exposed to measles
Measles can lead to complications such as pneumonia, ear infections, diarrhoea, and encephalitis (brain inflammation), so early medical intervention is important.
Aftercare & Preventing the Spread
- Stay home for at least 4 days after the rash appears to prevent spreading the virus.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands frequently to reduce transmission.
- Avoid contact with vulnerable individuals, such as babies, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly to prevent further spread.
Measles Prevention
The best protection against measles is the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella), which is part of the routine childhood immunisation programme in Ireland. Two doses provide over 99% protection against measles.
Who Should Get the MMR Vaccine?
- Children receive the first dose at 12 months and the second dose at 4-5 years
- Adults born after 1978 who have not had two doses of MMR should get vaccinated
- People planning pregnancy should ensure they are fully vaccinated
- Unvaccinated healthcare workers and international travellers are advised to check their MMR status
→Learn more about measles from the HSE
→For expert advice, visit your nearest McCauley Pharmacy.
