MEASLES

SYMPTOMS

cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing and a cough

sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light

a high temperature (fever), which may reach around 40C (104F)

small greyish-white spots on the inside of the cheeks

SEE YOUR GP IF YOU HAVE

been fully vaccinated with 2 doses of the MMR vaccine

had the infection before

HOW MEASLES IS SPREAD

breathing in the droplets coming out of the nose and mouth of an infected person

touching a surface the droplets have settled on and placing your hands near your nose or mouth (the virus can survive on surfaces for a few hours)

PREVENTION

Measles can be prevented by having the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This is given in 2 doses as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme.

The first dose is given when your child is around 13 months old, and a second dose is given at 3 years and 4 months.

If the MMR vaccine isn't suitable for you, a treatment called human normal immunoglobulin (HNIG) can be used if you're at immediate risk of catching measles.

TREATMENT

taking paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve fever, aches and pains (aspirin should not be given to children under 16 years old)

drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration

closing the curtains to help reduce light sensitivity

using damp cotton wool to clean the eyes

staying off school or work for at least 4 days from when the rash first appears

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