How long does a GP consultation take to work for measles?

Measles can cause fever, cough, runny nose, sore or red eyes and a spreading rash. Tell the practice before attending because suspected measles can spread easily, and the team may arrange a safer assessment. The GP may review vaccination and exposure history, examine the rash and mouth, and decide whether testing or public-health advice is needed.

Stay away from school, work and vulnerable people until a clinician advises that it is safe. Rest, drink fluids and use suitable fever relief according to professional advice. Do not arrive unannounced at a clinic or waiting room; call first and describe the rash, fever and possible exposure.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, severe dehydration, unusual drowsiness, confusion, a seizure, or a child who is rapidly becoming more unwell. Contact a GP promptly for a high fever with rash, suspected exposure, or measles symptoms in an infant, pregnant person or someone with reduced immunity.

Ask how to prevent spreading infection, how long to stay away from others, which symptoms need urgent help, whether contacts need advice, and how follow-up will be arranged.