Overview
Causes
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Complications
What is Measles?
Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious viral disease that manifests with fever and a distinctive rash. The virus spreads through the air via respiratory droplets when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. Currently, there is no specific medical treatment for measles; the virus must be allowed to run its course. Vaccination remains the most effective method of prevention.
Since the introduction of the measles vaccine, the incidence of the disease has significantly decreased. However, in recent years, declining vaccination rates in the United States and other parts of the world have led to outbreaks. Travelers from countries without comprehensive vaccination programs can also spread measles. Therefore, anyone not vaccinated against measles remains at risk.
Measles should not be confused with German measles (rubella). Other names for measles include 10-day measles or red measles.
