Description
An extremely contagious viral illness also known as rubeola. The infection is spread through sneezing and coughing. It causes fever, cough, conjunctivitis, and a rash. Immunization has greatly reduced the number of childhood cases. Symptoms usually begin 7-14 days after exposure. Measles can be deadly.
Symptoms
Symptoms often begin with a high fever (> 103 F), followed by a dry cough, nasal congestion (coryza), and red painful eyes (conjunctivitis). Other symptoms include sore throat, muscle pain, tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik's spots), photophobia (light sensitivity), and rash. The rash begins on the face as red patches that spread to the trunk, arms and legs.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests may include: viral culture (rarely done) and a blood test for measles serology.
Other Specific Tests: Viral culture (rarely done), measles serology
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests may include: viral culture (rarely done) and a blood test for measles serology.
Other Specific Tests: Viral culture (rarely done), measles serology
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
Treatment
Treatment includes: rest, oral fluids, and acetaminophen (Tylenol). Aspirin should not be given to children with a viral illness because of the risk of Reye's syndrome. Currently, there is no anti-viral drug to treat measles.