Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that causes fever and rash. It is spread through the air by an infected person breathing, coughing or sneezing and is so contagious that any child or adult who is exposed to it and is not immune will probably get the disease.

Healthcare Providers are reminded to report suspected cases of measles. See the "Healthcare Providers" tab below for details on reporting, screening, and more.

  1. Signs & Symptoms
  2. Transmission
  3. Complications
  4. Healthcare Providers

The symptoms of measles generally appear about 7-21 days after a person is exposed, and include:

  • High fever (> 101°F)
  • Cough
  • Feeling run down, achy (malaise)
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • Runny nose
  • Blotchy rash

Measles usually starts with a high fever (103-105°F), cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. Three to five days after symptoms start, a rash develops that spreads from the hairline on the face down to the body.

Rash

Three to five days after the start of symptoms, a red or reddish-brown rash appears. The rash usually begins on a person's face at the hairline and spreads downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet. The rash lasts 5-6 days and fades in the order of appearance.

After a few days, the fever subsides and the rash fades.

See photos of Measles from the CDC for additional images.

If you want to check your immunization records, you can get them through myIR through Arizona Department of Health Services. If you need assistance getting your records, you can call the CARES Team at (602) 506-6767 for assistance.