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Measles

(More severe than German Measles — the child is usually very ill).

Time from exposure to illness: 10 to 14 days.

First signs:

Fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes. A red raised blotchy rash appears – three to seven days later. This starts on the face and spreads to the rest of body.

At home:

• Give paracetamol  for fever and pain.
• Keep lighting dim as eyes become sensitive to light.
• Child needs lots of rest and plenty of fluids (don’t worry if appetite is poor for a few days).
• Keep away from others for at least four days after the rash appears. Children may be prevented from catching measles if they are immunised within three days of contact. People who haven’t been immunised must stay home for 14 days from exposure date.
• Let others know if their child has played with yours up to 10 days previously.

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