Is measles a communicable disease?
Short answer
Measles is a communicable viral disease that can spread readily between people through shared air.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Meaning of communicable
- Able to pass from person to person
- Main route
- Shared air and respiratory particles
- Useful first step
- Phone before attending a clinic
What communicable means here
A communicable disease can pass from one person to another. Measles spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes, releasing particles that others may inhale. Someone can be infectious before the rash is obvious, which makes early phone advice useful. Fever, cough, runny nose, sore eyes and a later rash are common features, but another illness can look similar.
Learn more about [Measles](/conditions/measles/), [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) and [Swollen Glands](/symptoms/swollen-glands/).
How to reduce spread
Stay away from shared indoor spaces and contact a healthcare service by phone before attending. Keep ventilation flowing where practical, cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands and avoid sharing personal items. Tell the service about possible exposure, travel and vaccination history. A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can guide assessment and contact precautions.
When to seek care
Seek prompt advice for fever with a new rash or after known contact with measles. Get urgent help for breathing problems, confusion, extreme drowsiness, dehydration or a seizure. Keep distance from vulnerable household members while waiting for instructions, and call ahead so a clinic can plan a safer assessment.
Questions for your doctor
Ask when the person may return to school or work, whether household contacts need advice, and which symptoms require escalation. Ask how [MMR Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/mmr-vaccination/) can protect people who are eligible.
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Can measles spread before the rash?
Yes. A person may be infectious before the rash is clearly visible, so early phone advice helps protect others.
Should I walk into a clinic with a suspected case?
Phone first and describe the symptoms; the service can advise how to attend while limiting exposure.
Keep reading
Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.