Measles Symptoms: How to identify the virus

The Oklahoma State Department of Health has reported two cases of measles linked to an outbreak originating in Texas and New Mexico.

While the situation remains under close monitoring, health experts emphasize the importance of understanding the symptoms of measles to help prevent its spread.

What Are the Symptoms of Measles?

Measles typically begins with flu-like symptoms, which can make it hard to identify the virus. Key early symptoms include:

1. Fever
2. Cough
3. Runny nose
4. Red, watery eyes

Approximately 3 to 5 days after these initial symptoms appear, a rash develops, usually starting on the face and spreading down the body in a characteristic pattern. The rash often begins around the hairline, then moves down the neck and trunk, and eventually to the arms, legs, and feet. It typically disappears in the reverse order, moving up the body in what’s known as the "elevator effect."

Measles can be highly contagious, especially during the early stages when symptoms are not yet obvious. Individuals who are infected can spread the virus to others before the rash even appears, making early recognition and isolation crucial to preventing transmission.

Serious Complications

While measles is often thought of as a childhood illness, it can cause serious complications, particularly in children under the age of five. Dr. Scott Cyrus, a local pediatrician, warns that about one in every 1,000 children who contract measles may develop encephalitis—a severe brain inflammation that can lead to deafness, convulsions, or intellectual disabilities.

Other complications include ear infections, diarrhea, and dehydration, which may require hospitalization. In rare cases, measles can lead to subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a fatal brain disease that typically develops years after the initial infection.

At-Risk Populations

Populations most at risk for measles include:

1. Unvaccinated children under five
2. Pregnant women who have not received two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine
3. Individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, or other chronic health issues

Prevention and Vaccination

The best defense against measles is vaccination. The MMR vaccine is highly effective, with two doses providing 97% protection against the virus. Dr. Cyrus stresses that serious reactions to the MMR vaccine are extremely rare—approximately one in a million—making vaccination significantly safer than contracting the disease itself.

Health officials also recommend that anyone who has had exposure to someone with measles and is not immune through vaccination or prior infection should consult a healthcare provider and follow isolation protocols for 21 days unless symptoms develop. Individuals showing symptoms should remain isolated for at least five days after the rash appears.

Measles in Oklahoma: What You Should Do

The Oklahoma State Department of Health is working with healthcare providers across the state to monitor the situation and prevent further spread. If you suspect you may have measles, call your healthcare provider ahead of time to alert them of your symptoms and potential exposure. This allows them to take appropriate precautions to protect other patients and staff.

As measles continues to be a threat, particularly in regions experiencing outbreaks, staying informed and up-to-date on vaccinations remains the best strategy to protect yourself and your community.

For more information on measles symptoms and prevention, visit the Oklahoma State Department of Health website or consult your healthcare provider.

Other stories you may be interested in:

Who's At Risk? Pediatrician explains Measles risks, offers prevention tips

Health officials emphasize prevention measures after 2 measles cases confirmed in Oklahoma

Measles reported in Oklahoma: State Health Dept. Urges Public to Follow These Recommendations

Your questions on measles, symptoms, and the MMR vaccine, answered by experts