Measles outbreak: The lesser-known symptoms to be aware of before red rash develops
16.01.2024 - 14:09
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
With measles cases skyrocketing across the UK, it's vital to be aware of the symptoms. A new outbreak of the Victorian disease has been confirmed following a surge of cases in England and Wales.
Although the illness is most common in young children, anyone can get it if they've never had it before, or if they haven't been vaccinated against it through the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, reports the Mirror. Some of the symptoms are less obvious than the distinctive red or brown rash associated with the disease.
However other, lesser-known symptoms can appear before the tell-tale rash. Many of the early symptoms of measles can look like a cold or the flu, so at this time of year, it's important to be especially vigilant of the symptoms you or your child are experiencing, as it can be difficult to tell what illness you're facing.
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The first symptoms of measles develop around 10 days after you're infected, and can include a high temperature as well as a runny nose and a cough. According to the NHS, you should specifically pay close attention to your eyes, as having watery eyes, swollen eyes, or sore eyes that are sensitive to light could all be symptoms of measles.
The NHS' full list of symptoms include:
The measles rash is the most identifiable part of the disease, but this usually develops two to four days after the initial symptoms. The rash normally fades after around a week and is made up of small red-brown, flat or slightly raised spots that may join together into larger blotchy patches.
Most measles rashes start on the head or neck before spreading outwards to the rest of the body, and it may be slightly itchy for some people.