Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that typically occurs in childhood. It can be serious and even fatal for small children, killing more than 100,000 people a year, most of whom are under the age of five. Measles is spread through airborne infected droplets that can be inhaled or can contaminate surfaces.

Initial symptoms are non-specific and typically begin between one and two weeks after infection. They include a moderate fever,  persistent dry cough, runny nose, sore throat and inflamed eyes. The disease progresses to a high fever with a red rash on the skin consisting of large, flat blotches that often merge into one another. 

There are several serious complications of measles including bacterial ear infection, bronchitis, laryngitis, croup, pneumonia, encephalitis, problems with pregnancy and low platelet count.

Measles is best treated through prevention using the very effective vaccines available. Children typically receive two doses of the vaccine at 12 - 15 months, and at 4 - 6 years. Adults who have no evidence of immunity should also receive at least one dose. If contracted, the disease will run its course with the only effective treatment being home care including rest, drinking plenty of fluids, treatment of fever and body aches with NSAIDs (nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs)  or general pain relief medication, using a humidifier to ease respiratory congestion and cough, and dimming lights or using sunglasses if bright light is bothersome. Antibiotics are usually given to people who develop a secondary bacterial infection.