measles

an extremely infectious disease of children caused by a VIRUS and characterized by the presence of a RASH . It occurs in epidemics every two or three years. After an INCUBATION period of 10-15 days, the initial symptoms are those of a COMMON COLD , with coughing, sneezing and high fever. It is at this stage that the disease is most infectious and spreads from one child to another in airborne droplets before measles has been diagnosed. This is the main factor responsible for the epidemic nature of the disease. Small red spots with a white centre (known as Koplik spots) may appear in the mouth on the inside of the cheeks. Then a characteristic rash develops on the skin, spreading from behind the ears and across the face and also affecting other areas. The small red spots may be grouped together in patches, and the child's fever is usually at its height while these are developing. The spots and fever gradually decline and no marks are left on the skin, most children making a good recovery. However, complications can occur, particularly pneumonia and middle EAR infections, which can result in deafness. A VACCINE now available has reduced the incidence and severity of measles in the UK.