Home / News / What to do if you suspect you or your child has Measles
If you suspect you may have measles, please do not attend the UTC, instead call NHS 111 to be assessed and signposted appropriately.
Symptoms of measles start with typical viral symptoms such as:
a high temperature
a runny or blocked nose
sneezing
a cough
red, sore, watery eyes
Small white spots may appear inside the cheeks and on the back of the lips a few days later. These spots usually last a few days.
Rash: measles is characterised by a typical rash which usually appears 2 to 4 days after the cold-like symptoms started.
The rash starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body.
The spots of the measles rash can sometimes be raised. They may join to form blotchy patches. They are not usually itchy.
The rash looks brown or red on white skin. It may be harder to see on brown and black skin.
A person with measles can spread the infection in the 4 days before they get the rash until 4 days after they develop their rash.
You can be protected from catching measles if you have had 2 doses of a measles containing vaccine such as measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine or Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), or if you have had the infection before.
Having a measles containing vaccine is the best way to prevent measles.
The vaccine is usually given to children in two doses. The first dose is given to children aged 12 months old, and the second dose at 18 months old (MMRV) or previously at 3 years 4 months old (MMR).
If someone has missed a dose or are unsure if they have had any vaccinations, the vaccine can be given at any age. Parents and guardians can check their child’s red book for their vaccination records.
If you are unsure if you, or your child, have had 2 doses of the MMRV (or MMR) vaccine you can check with your GP practice. If you have not had 2 doses of the vaccine you can be vaccinated via your GP surgery.
Treatment for Suspected Measles
There is no specific antiviral cure for measles. Care focuses on relieving symptoms, preventing dehydration, and watching for complications. Most otherwise‑healthy people recover with rest and supportive care.
Stay home and isolate
Measles spreads extremely easily through the air.
People are infectious from 4 days before the rash until 4 days after it appears.
Avoid contact with babies, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system.
Contact a healthcare professional
Call your GP or NHS 111 before attending in person so they can arrange safe assessment.
This is especially important if:
The person is under 1 year old
You are pregnant
You have a weakened immune system
You have not had MMR vaccination
Supportive Care at Home
These measures help ease symptoms while the illness runs its course:
Hydration
Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Rest
Adequate rest helps the immune system fight the virus.
Fever & discomfort
Adults may use paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever or discomfort.
Children may use age‑appropriate paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Always follow packaging instructions or ask a pharmacist if unsure.
Eye care
If eyes are crusted, gently clean with cotton wool dipped in cooled boiled water.
Reduce spread
Wash hands often.
Use tissues for coughs/sneezes and dispose immediately.
Do not share cups, cutlery, towels, or bedding.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Call 999 or go to A&E if the person with suspected measles has:
Severe difficulty breathing
A seizure (fit)
Extreme drowsiness or confusion
A rash that does not fade with a glass test
A stiff neck or sensitivity to light
A baby or child who is floppy, unresponsive, or not feeding
Special Situations
Pregnant individuals
Measles in pregnancy can cause complications such as miscarriage or premature birth. Seek medical advice immediately if exposed.
Immunocompromised individuals
They may require urgent assessment and sometimes intravenous immunoglobulin.
