What type of disease is measles?

The virus enters through the respiratory tract and can spread from person to person through shared air. Early illness may resemble another respiratory infection, with fever, tiredness, cough, a runny nose, or red eyes. The rash commonly appears later and may begin on the face before moving down the body. Swollen glands can occur with infections, but symptoms vary between people.

Measles is different from a bacterial throat infection, so antibiotics do not treat the virus itself. A clinician may need to assess symptoms and exposure while protecting other patients. See the overview of [Measles](/conditions/measles/), plus information on [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) and [Swollen Glands](/symptoms/swollen-glands/).

Keep the person at home and reduce close indoor contact while arranging advice. Phone the clinic before attending, describe the fever or rash, and mention any known contact with measles and the person’s vaccination history. Encourage fluids and rest, and use only symptom medicines that are suitable for the person’s age and health. A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) supports safe assessment. For prevention, ask about [MMR Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/mmr-vaccination/).

Contact a healthcare professional promptly when measles is suspected, particularly for a baby, pregnant person, or someone with a weakened immune system. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, severe dehydration, confusion, a seizure, marked sleepiness, or deterioration after initial improvement. Call before travelling to a healthcare facility so infection-control arrangements can be made.

Ask whether the symptoms fit measles or another infection, how to protect people at home, and how long isolation is advised. Ask whether close contacts need vaccination advice or clinical observation.