Measles Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms, which usually occur 8-12 days following exposure, include:

• Fever (often high)
• Runny nose
• Red eyes
• Hacking cough
• Sore throat
• Exhaustion
• Very small spots inside the mouth (2-4 days after initial symptoms)
• Raised, itchy rash:
  • Starts around the ears, face, and side of neck 3-5 days after initial symptoms appear
  • Generally spreads to the arms, trunk, and legs over the next two days
  • Lasts about 4-6 days

Full recovery, without scarring, generally takes 7-10 days from the onset of the rash.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis is made from the symptoms and the rash. Lab tests are usually not needed.