Measles – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Diagnosing measles involves a combination of reviewing symptoms, discussing recent exposure history, and running specific tests when needed.
Health care providers typically begin by asking about signs like fever, cough, red eyes, and a blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads. These symptoms often appear 7 to 14 days after exposure.
In areas where measles is not widespread, or when symptoms are unclear, lab tests are used to confirm the diagnosis. These tests help rule out other illnesses that may look similar, such as rubella or other viral rashes.
Common Diagnostic Steps
| Step | Purpose |
| Physical exam and symptom review | To look for classic signs like rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. |
| Recent travel or exposure history | To assess risk based on known measles outbreaks or contact with infected individuals. |
| Blood test (measles IgM antibodies) | To detect an immune response indicating recent measles infection. |
| Throat swab or nasal sample (PCR test) | To confirm the presence of the measles virus’s genetic material. |
These tests are especially important during measles outbreaks, in unvaccinated individuals, or when someone shows early symptoms without a visible rash.
Treatment
If people who are not immune to measles are exposed to the virus, they can lower their risk of getting sick through quick intervention.
If someone over six months old is exposed and has not had the measles vaccine or the illness itself, getting the measles vaccine within three days can help. After this shot, they do not need to stay home away from others.
For children under one year old who are not yet protected, a special shot containing antibodies—classified as antibody-based passive immunization—can be given within six days of exposure.
This treatment may help the body clear the measles virus before symptoms start. After receiving this antibody shot, caregivers should follow home isolation (quarantine) for three weeks.
Healthcare providers can explain when isolation is needed and when it is safe to return to normal activities.
Table: Quick Actions After Measles Exposure
| Age Group | Option | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Over 6 months | Live attenuated virus vaccine (preventive) | Within 3 days |
| Up to 11 months | Antibody-based passive immunization (immune serum) | Within 6 days |
Practical Ways to Help Manage Measles Symptoms
Most treatment for measles involves taking steps at home to help the body recover and lower the risk of further health problems. Good rest and balanced meals help the body heal.
People with measles should drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration, which is a common concern during fever and illness. Drinks like water, broths, or oral rehydration solutions can be useful.
Talk with a doctor before giving these solutions to infants. Fever and body aches are common measles symptoms. Use over-the-counter medicines, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to reduce discomfort.
Follow the directions for these medicines. Do not give aspirin to children and teens, as it can lead to a rare but serious illness called Reye’s syndrome, especially with viral infections like measles, chickenpox, or the flu.
Handling Issues That Come With Measles
Measles infection increases the risk of more serious health dangers, especially in infants, those with weak immune systems, and pregnant people.
Bacterial infections such as pneumonia or infected ears may require antibiotic medicine, but antibiotics do not treat the virus itself.
In some people, the measles virus can cause trouble breathing or decrease oxygen in the blood. Health care providers may give extra oxygen or breathing support in these cases.
For children, doctors sometimes give vitamin A as part of treatment if levels are low. Getting enough vitamin A could lower the chances of severe symptoms or death.
The amount depends on the child’s age and should only be given as directed by a healthcare professional, since too much vitamin A can be harmful.
Other Possible Treatments With Less Support
Some other treatments—like steroids—do not have strong proof that they help or may even make things worse.
Doctors generally do not advise steroid medicines for measles, except in certain rare situations where they may recommend them for people at high risk or with very severe illness.
People should always work closely with their healthcare provider to decide which treatments are safe and right in their situation. Vaccination remains the main way to prevent measles and its future outbreaks.
