What should you know about measles, mumps and rubella?

Measles commonly causes fever, cough, runny nose, irritated eyes and a spreading rash. Mumps may cause painful swelling near the cheeks or jaw because the salivary glands are inflamed. Rubella can cause a milder rash and swollen glands. A fever can occur with several infections and does not identify the cause by itself; read more about [Fever](/symptoms/fever/).

If measles is suspected, avoid close contact with others and telephone before attending a clinic so staff can reduce exposure. Details about the illness are available under [Measles](/conditions/measles/).

Rest, drink fluids and monitor how symptoms change. Keep the person with a possible contagious illness away from school, work and crowded indoor settings until a clinician gives appropriate advice. Do not share cups, towels or eating utensils. Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if symptoms suggest one of these infections, vaccination records are unclear, or a child has been exposed.

Vaccination is the main preventive measure. A clinician can check records and explain whether [MMR Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/mmr-vaccination/) is appropriate.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, unusual sleepiness, confusion, a seizure, severe dehydration, a stiff neck, or a rapidly worsening condition. Contact a clinician promptly for a new rash with fever, painful facial swelling, or swollen glands, especially after travel or contact with an affected person. [Swollen Glands](/symptoms/swollen-glands/) can have many causes, so the surrounding symptoms matter.

Ask which infection best fits the symptoms, whether testing or isolation advice is needed, when normal activities can resume, and whether household contacts need vaccination advice. Take the immunisation record and note the date symptoms began.