MEASLES

Measles Overview

Measles (Rubeola), and German Measles (Rubella) are infectious viral diseases that primarily affect the respiratory system and mostly occur in winter and spring.

The most common symptoms of measles include fever, a hacking cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and a spreading rash.  Measles can also cause a range of serious complications.

The incubation period for measles is about 2 weeks between exposure to the virus and the appearance of the rash.

Most symptoms of measles subside 1 or 2 days after the rash begins, but the cough and rash usually last 10-14 days.
 
Measles, like all viral diseases, cannot be treated with antibiotics.  Also like most viral illnesses, a measles infection can normally be left to run its course.  Fortunately, most children and adults recover from measles within 2-3 weeks without developing any serious complications.

Complications can result from measles,which could be of a serious nature as detailed below (see Measles Symptoms).In the event of any signs of these occuring , immediate medical treatment should be obtained.

Measles can also make the body more susceptible to other diseases, such as ear infections or pneumonias caused by bacteria.

Symptoms and complications of measles are usually more severe in adults.

Full information on Measles is available in the Free eBook which includes symptoms, complications, transmission, diagnosis, treatment and prevention in detail.

 
WARNING- DO NOT USE ASPIRIN.  Unless instructed by your child's doctor, don't give aspirin to a child who has a viral illness since the use of aspirin in such cases has been associated with the development of Reye Syndrome – a serious and potentially deadly encephalitis-like illness.  Instead, acetaminophen and ibuprofen may be used safely.

If there is any doubt, then please call your Doctor or Health Care Provider.

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