After these outbreaks and following extensive childhood immunization programs, the incidence of measles dropped to an all the time low in 1993. Over the next 3 days, the rash proceeds downward and outward reaching the hands and feet. The rash then becomes confluent, particularly on the upper body, and then fades in the same order that it appears, from head to feet. As it fades, the skin may peel a little. Complications are more common among children less than 5 years old and adults older than 20 years.
Diarrhea is the most commonly reported complication of measles.
Otitis media is almost exclusively seen in children. Pneumonia which may be viral or superimposed bacterial, is the most common cause of death. Although there is no specific treatment, it is important to take your child to the physician for evaluation and to insure that measles is the cause of the illness and to follow closely complications. Bed rest, medications for the control of fever, and adequate fluid intake is recommended. The conjunctivitis seen with measles is painful if the child is exposed to the sun, and for some comfort it is often recommended to darken the room for the first days.