Measles
Time from exposure to illness (incubation period): 10 –14 days.
Measles is more severe than German measles – the child is usually very ill.
Signs and symptoms
- Fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes.
- A red raised blotchy rash appears 3–7 days later.
- The rash starts on the face and spreads to the rest of body.
See your doctor first for an accurate diagnosis. They will need to report any outbreaks to the local Public Health Unit so other people who might be infected can be contacted.
Treatment at home
- Give paracetamol for fever and pain.
- Keep the lighting dim as eyes become sensitive to light.
- Make sure your child gets lots of rest and plenty of fluids (don't worry if their appetite is poor for a few days).
- Inform the parents of any children who your child may have been playing with in the last 10 days.
- Keep away from others for at least 4 days after the rash appears.
Children may be prevented from catching measles if they are immunised within 3 days of contact. People who haven't been immunised must stay home for 14 days from exposure date. (See ‘Immunisation,’ p.x)
