Doctors Hospital of Augusta - March 05, 2025

An itchy red rash is the second stage of infection for measles.

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a serious and sometimes fatal respiratory disease that’s caused by a virus. It’s one of the leading causes of death in children worldwide, but was declared eliminated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2000, following a year of no continuous transmission.

However, a recent outbreak in Texas and reports of cases in other states has brought it back to the forefront, along with the importance of early vaccination.

Signs and symptoms of measles

Measles symptoms occur is stages, beginning with a high fever accompanied by:

  • A runny nose
  • Cough
  • Watery eyes

Tiny white spots may appear in the mouth a couple of days later. An itchy red rash follows in three to five days, starting at the hairline and spreading down to the feet.

An infected person can spread the virus up to four days before and after the red rash appears by coughing or sneezing. Measles droplets can remain in the air for hours after a person has coughed and left a room. Others can become infected by breathing that air or touching an infected surface, then touching their own nose or mouth.

How to stop the spread of infection

The CDC recommends all children get two doses of MMR vaccine by age six. Adults who aren’t immune should also get at least one dose.

Any child or adult who is not vaccinated is at risk, especially if they visit an area where an outbreak has been reported. Children who are not fully vaccinated should be kept away from anyone who has measles.

Complications and treatment

No treatment can cure the virus or shorten the length of infection. Once a person is infected, complications may include:

  • Pneumonia
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Swelling of the brain

A doctor may order fluids for dehydration or prescribe antibiotics if needed. The CDC reports that 25% percent of measles patients in 2025 have been hospitalized with measles complications. The largest group is children under five years.

What you can do now

  • Check with your healthcare provider or a nearby urgent care center to schedule an MMR or MMRV vaccine.
  • Stay updated on outbreaks and cases, particularly if one is happening close to your home or work.
  • If anyone has symptoms of infection, seek medical attention and isolate the patient and close family members from others.

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