Infant measles: what parents should know

Measles is a contagious viral infection. A child may first have Fever, cough, a runny nose, red or watery eyes, and reduced energy. A rash can then appear and spread from the face or hairline down the body. Swollen Glands may occur, but these symptoms overlap with other infections, so a rash and fever cannot confirm measles without clinical assessment.

Tell the clinic before arriving if measles is suspected. Share when the fever and rash began, whether your infant has been near someone unwell, and which vaccinations they have received. Keep your baby away from other children and vulnerable people while awaiting advice.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly and ask how the assessment should happen. Keep your infant comfortable, offer frequent fluids or usual feeds, and monitor wet nappies. Wash hands, avoid sharing cups or towels, and improve ventilation where practical. Do not take your baby unannounced into a waiting room, where other people could be exposed. MMR Vaccination is a key preventive topic to discuss with the clinician, including what is appropriate for your child.

Seek emergency help if your infant has difficulty breathing, a seizure, severe drowsiness, a stiff neck, signs of dehydration, blue or grey colour, or cannot be roused. Obtain urgent medical advice for a persistent fever, poor feeding, worsening cough, or a rapidly spreading rash. A very young infant who develops fever should be assessed promptly, even if the rash is not yet present.

Could these symptoms be measles or another infection? How should we attend without exposing others? How can we maintain fluids and feeds? Is my infant up to date with MMR Vaccination, and what should household contacts do?