For more information, consult your physician. Measles Immunizations for measles has made this highly contagious disease far less common in recent years, but parents should still be familiar with the warning signs of measles and its dangers. Affecting the skin and respiratory tract, measles in its early stages, causes a dry cough, high fever, runny nose, watery eyes and sometimes diarrhea. For or five days after the onset of the disease, a rash appears, usually beginning on the forehead and behind the ears. The rash should begin to fade after a day or two, and body temperature begins to return to normal.
Recovery is usually complete and prompt.
Symptomatic relief during infection is often provided by pain relievers and drugs to combat fever. While most cases of measles are not serious if left untreated, it can lead to such complications as pneumonia, encephaltits, abnormal swelling of the head and is highly contagious. An un-immunized family will likely contract the disease if one member of the family gets it. Immunization and a familiarity with the symptoms of measles are two of the most reliable ways to avoid contracting the disease. For more information on measles, contact your physician.