What should you know about measles sarampion?

Measles can cause fever, cough, runny nose and red or watery eyes. Small spots inside the mouth may appear before the skin rash, which often begins around the face and then spreads. Swollen glands can accompany an infection. These features do not confirm the diagnosis on their own, and a clinician may need to consider other causes of fever and rash.

Keep the person with suspected measles away from shared indoor spaces and people at higher risk while you arrange advice. Call the healthcare service before attending and mention the fever, rash, possible exposure and vaccination history. Encourage fluids and rest. Review MMR vaccination records with a clinician; vaccination is a key way to reduce future measles illness and transmission. Avoid sending a potentially infectious child to school until advised.

Seek prompt advice for a new widespread rash with fever or if measles exposure has occurred. Emergency assessment is needed for breathing problems, blue lips, confusion, a seizure, severe weakness, inability to drink, or much less urine. A GP consultation can explain isolation, examination and follow-up. Phone before arrival so the service can arrange assessment safely.

Ask whether the illness needs testing, how long the person should stay away from others, and which symptoms mean urgent review. Check whether household contacts need vaccination advice and how to locate missing records.