Measles typically begins with a cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and fever. These symptoms are followed by a red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles is highly contagious and is transmitted by airborne spread. Dr. Shiferaw cautioned that persons with a rash illness should not just drop in to their physician s office or to the emergency room. Since measles is very contagious, we advise those who suspect they may have measles to call beforehand and arrange an appointment where other patients will not be exposed, Shiferaw stated.
Persons are no longer contagious four days after the rash has appeared.
The best prevention against measles is to be fully vaccinated. Adults born during or after 1957 who have not had measles or aren t sure if they have had measles should receive one dose of measles vaccine. College students and children one year of age and older should receive two doses of measles vaccine, given at least one month apart. Adults born before 1957 have probably already had measles and are presumed to be immune. Therefore, they should consult their infection-control practitioners about the need for vaccination.