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Measles

REVIEWED_BY  dr. Caisar Dewi Maulina  
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

What Is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory infection. It is characterized by a widespread skin rash and flu-like symptoms. The disease is caused by a virus that spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.

Symptoms usually appear 1 to 2 weeks after exposure to the virus. Measles is most common in children and can be life-threatening. Fortunately, it is preventable through vaccination.

If your child develops measles, consult one of these five experienced pediatricians immediately.

Causes of Measles

Measles is caused by the rubeola virus. It spreads through direct contact with an infected person or through airborne droplets.

The virus belongs to the genus Morbillivirus in the Paramyxoviridae family, with humans as the only natural hosts.

It enters the body via the mouth, nose, or eyes, typically reaching the lungs first. There, it infects immune cells that travel to lymph nodes, allowing the virus to multiply and spread throughout the body, entering the bloodstream.

Once in the bloodstream, the virus reaches various organs, including the liver, skin, central nervous system, and spleen. In the skin, it causes inflammation of the capillaries, leading to the characteristic measles rash.

Symptoms typically develop 6 to 21 days after infection. A person can spread the virus from about 4 days before the rash appears until 4 days after.

Risk Factors for Measles

Measles is more common in children under the age of five, but anyone can be infected. You’re more vulnerable if you’ve never had measles or haven’t been vaccinated.

Risk factors include:

  1. Lack of Vaccination: Individuals who have not received the measles vaccine are at higher risk.
  2. International Travel: Traveling to countries where measles is still common increases the risk of infection.
  3. Vitamin A Deficiency: A lack of vitamin A can lead to more severe symptoms and complications.

Symptoms of Measles

Early symptoms include a runny nose, cough, high fever, and red eyes. Children may also develop Koplik spots, small red spots with bluish-white centers inside the mouth, before the rash appears.

The rash usually begins 3 to 5 days after the initial symptoms, starting behind the ears, then spreading to the head, neck, and eventually the entire body.

Other symptoms may include:

  • Red, light-sensitive eyes
  • Cold-like symptoms (dry cough, runny nose, sore throat)
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • High fever
  • Body aches
  • Loss of appetite
  • Diarrhea and/or vomiting
  • Grayish-white spots in the mouth and throat

Diagnosis of Measles

Measles is typically diagnosed based on clinical symptoms. In some cases, additional tests such as complete blood count, measles antibody testing, or liver function tests may be used.

For confirmation, a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test can detect the virus, although it’s not necessary in most cases.

Treatment for Measles

As a viral illness, there is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. The condition often resolves on its own. To manage symptoms:

  • Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
  • Get lots of rest and avoid sunlight, especially if eyes are sensitive
  • Take fever reducers and pain relievers as needed

Prevention of Measles

Also known as rubeola, measles can be prevented through vaccination. The measles vaccine is part of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) combination vaccine.

MMR is given in two doses:

  • First dose at 15 months of age
  • Second dose at 5–6 years old (before starting school)

How does the vaccine work? It introduces a weakened form of the virus, helping the immune system develop protective antibodies. This immunity helps fight off real infection if it occurs in the future.

Complications of Measles

While many recover without issue, some people develop complications, including:

  • Bronchitis
  • Pneumonia
  • Ear infections
  • Encephalitis (brain inflammation)
  • Meningitis
  • Diarrhea
  • Death (in severe cases)

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if someone with measles symptoms also:

  • Is under 1 year old
  • Is pregnant
  • Has a weakened immune system
  • Experiences complications like difficulty breathing, chest pain, or seizures

Conclusion

Measles is a preventable infectious disease. If you or your child develops symptoms, consult a doctor via Halodoc as soon as possible. Remember, vaccination is the best protection against measles for yourself and others.

Don’t hesitate to contact our English-speaking doctor on Halodoc to get more detailed information about this disease.

You can reach a doctor directly from your smartphone using the Halodoc app. Doctors are available 24 hours to answer your questions.

You can also purchase 100% original and trusted health products from the Halodoc Health Store. No need to leave home, delivery in just 1 hour!

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Halodoc app on Play Store or App Store today!

References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed 2025. Questions About Measles.
Health Direct. Accessed 2025. Measles.
Cleveland Clinic. Accessed 2025. Measles.

FAQ About Measles

1. Can measles be fatal?

Yes, measles can lead to life-threatening complications, especially in infants and young children.

2. Can you get measles more than once?

Typically, those who’ve had measles develop lifelong immunity. Reinfection is extremely rare but may occur in people with compromised immune systems.

3. Is the MMR vaccine safe?

Yes, the MMR vaccine is very safe and effective. Common side effects are mild, such as a slight fever or rash.

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