Which specialist treats measles?

Measles is highly contagious, so phone the clinic before attending and describe the symptoms. The clinician will consider the rash, fever, exposure history and vaccination record. A GP can coordinate testing, advice about staying away from others, hydration and monitoring. Children may be referred to a paediatrician when age, severity or another medical condition makes specialist input useful.

Fever and swollen glands can occur with measles, but symptoms can overlap with other infections. A diagnosis cannot be made from a rash alone.

Call a GP practice for instructions before entering the waiting room. Keep the person away from school, work and vulnerable contacts until a clinician explains when normal activities are appropriate. Record the fever pattern, rash onset, recent contacts and MMR vaccination history. Do not share towels, cups or medicines, and encourage fluids if swallowing is comfortable.

Seek emergency help for breathing difficulty, severe drowsiness, confusion, a seizure, dehydration, or a child who is difficult to wake. Get prompt medical advice if fever is persistent, the person is deteriorating, or an infant, pregnant person or someone with reduced immunity may have been exposed. Vaccination advice can be discussed after the immediate assessment.

Ask whether measles testing is needed, how long isolation should last, which symptoms indicate a complication, and how to protect household contacts. Ask whether catch-up MMR vaccination is appropriate for anyone who is not fully vaccinated.