Measles, also known as rubeola, is an extremely contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. Measles is best known for causing a rash that covers the entire body. The rash typically appears first on the forehead and then spreads downward to the rest of the epidermis covering the body. The measles rash is generally red or brown in color and has a splotchy appearance.
Measles is highly contagious; therefore, it is spread easily from an infected person to a non-infected person. If a person who has measles coughs or sneezes, he sends tiny droplets of the disease into the air. If another person breathes in these droplets, he may become infected with the measles virus. About twelve days after one is exposed to the measles virus, symptoms begin to appear. The first symptoms to appear include:
- Nasal congestion
- Cough
- High grade fever
- Watery red eyes
- Koplik's spots
- Swelling of the neck glands
Measles: Description
