01/07/2026
Symptoms of measles usually begin 7 to 14 days after exposure, but can appear up to 21 days after exposure and may include:
High fever (may spike to more than 104 degrees)
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots) 2 to 3 days after symptoms begin
A rash that is red, raised, blotchy; usually starts on face, spreads to trunk, arms and legs 3 to 5days after symptoms begin
An infected person can spread measles to others starting 4 days before and through 4 days after their rash appears.
What to do if you think you have measles: Because of its very contagious nature, it is recommended that people stay home and contact their healthcare provider if they suspect they have measles. People with symptoms of measles should not go to an emergency department or healthcare clinic without calling ahead to get guidance on when and where to go to avoid contact with others.
Measles can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5 years of age.
Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that is spread to others when a person with measles coughs or sneezes.