Measles advice and information
Measles is an infection that spreads very easily. It can occur suddenly, and people can become unwell quickly.
Have you been in contact with a case of measles?
Please note the following important information.
Symptoms of measles appear 7-10 days after contact with the virus and include:
- cold-like symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing and cough
- red, sore, watery eyes
- high temperature (fever)
- rash that usually starts on the head/neck before spreading down the body
- small white spots inside cheeks and the back of lips
Follow the link for more information about the symptoms
You should avoid exposing others who may be at risk:
- children under three years
- pregnant women
- people who have low immunity to infections
When to speak to your GP
If you have been near someone with measles or suspected measles you should contact your GP for advice as soon as possible if:
- you have a weakened immune system
- you are pregnant and think you may have missed a dose or are unsure if you have had the vaccine
- the concern relates to a child under 12 months old.
Speak with your GP or NHS 111 if symptoms appear in the three weeks after being near someone with measles. Try to speak on the phone, as measles is very infectious and this will help reduce the chance of spreading the virus to others.
More information about measles
Measles can be serious, particularly for people whose immune system is not working normally. The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination.
Most older children and adults are immune to measles and so are very unlikely to catch it. This is either because they had measles as a child or because they have been vaccinated.
Information about Measles can be found on the NHS choices web site.