Measles: What Is, Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

What Is Measles?

Measles is an acute viral infection characterized by a prominently spotted rash, inflammation of the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract and conjunctiva, and a fever. The incubation period—the time until prodromal symptoms appear—averages 10 days (ranging from 8 to 12 days). The time until the rash develops averages 14 days. The risk of contracting the illness after exposure is very high for…