In the first stage, the individual may have a runny nose, cough and slight fever. The eyes may become reddened and sensitive to light, while the fever consistently rises each day. The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads over the entire body. Symptoms usually appear in 10 to 12 days, although they may occur as early as 8 or as late as 13 days after exposure. An individual is able to transmit measles from five days prior and five days after rash onset.
Permanent immunity is acquired after contracting the disease.
There is no specific treatment for measles. Pneumonia occurs in up to 6 percent of reported cases and accounts for 60 percent of deaths attributed to measles. Other complications include middle ear infection and convulsions. Measles is more severe in infants and adults. The first dose should be given at 12 to 15 months of age.