Measles Treatment Q&A

Measles can clear up on its own as it is a virus. However, medical care is recommended to manage symptoms and lower the chance of complications. Fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a recognizable rash are some of the common symptoms caused by the measles virus. The symptoms usually linger for several days to a week. The rash usually clears up in less than two weeks.
 
Medical care helps reduce and manage symptoms, as well as prevents complications that can arise from measles. Treatment usually includes rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and relieve other symptoms. In some cases, hospitalization may be required if complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis develop.

Treatment for measles includes:
 
● Rest – It’s important to rest and allow the body to fight off the infection and recover.
● Fluids – Drinking plenty of fluids prevents dehydration, which is especially important if a fever is present.
● Fever-reducing medications – Over-the-counter fever-reducing medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can reduce fever and relieve other symptoms such as headaches and muscle pain. It’s important to consult a doctor before administering medication to children, due to the risk of a serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.
● Vitamin A – For children with severe measles, vitamin A supplements can reduce the risk of complications and improve health outcomes.
● Hospitalization – In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to treat measles. In-patient treatment often includes intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and medications to prevent or treat secondary infections.
 
It’s important to note that the most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. If you suspect that you or someone you know has measles, it’s wise to see a doctor for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

There are three stages of measles, which are:
 
● Incubation period – The incubation period is the time frame between virus exposure and the onset of symptoms. It typically lasts between 10 and 14 days. The person is not yet infectious during this period.
● Prodromal stage – This is the stage when symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and watery, red eyes first appear. This phase typically lasts 2 to 4 days.
● Rash period – This is the period when a recognizable rash appears. It usually starts on the face or neck and spreads to the rest of the body. The rash is made up of tiny red spots that blend together and typically lasts for 5 to 12 days.
 
After the rash disappears, other symptoms such as fatigue and cough may persist for several more days. In some cases, complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, or ear infections may occur, particularly in people with weakened immune systems or who are malnourished.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that presents a range of symptoms that vary in severity. The most significant symptoms of measles include:
 
● High fever – A fever, which can reach 104°F (40°C) or higher, is a common measles symptom.
● Rash – The measles rash typically develops 2 to 4 days after the onset of other symptoms. The rash often begins on the face and neck before moving to other parts of the body.
● Persistent cough – Another common symptom of measles is a persistent cough, which can also include a sore throat and a runny nose.
● Red, watery eyes – Measles often causes eye inflammation, which results in redness, sensitivity to light, and excessive tearing.
 
Other symptoms caused by measles include headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue. It’s important to note that the symptoms of measles can be similar to those of other viral infections, so a definitive diagnosis requires a blood test or swab test of the mouth or throat. If you suspect you or your child has measles, it’s important to visit an urgent care clinic for an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Brooklyn NYC, Queens NY, East Harlem NYC, Manhattan NY, Coney Island NYC, Midwood NY, Nostrand NYC, Ridgewood NY, Metropolitan NYC, Greenwich Village NY, and surrounding areas.