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Condition

Measles

What You Need to Know

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that results in a distinct rash, as well as a fever and cough.

Prevention

Measles is 97 percent preventable by vaccine.

Key Symptoms

Common measles symptoms may include fever, cough, small red spots with white centers on the inside of the cheek, and a deep, flat rash that spreads from the face to the body.

Treatment

Because the measles is caused by a virus, there is no cure. Increasing your child’s fluid intake and giving them acetaminophen for fever can help treat symptoms.

What You Need to Know About Measles

What is measles?

What causes the measles?

What are measles symptoms?

How is measles diagnosed?

How do you treat the measles?

Why is aspirin risky for children?

How do you protect children from getting the measles?

Meet the Providers Who Treat Measles

Departments that Treat Measles

    little girl smiling in exam room

    General and Community Pediatrics

    Children's National Hospital has the largest pediatric presence in the Washington, D.C., area. Our primary care practices are one way we carry out the mission at Children's National to expand access to quality healthcare and improve health outcomes for children in the community.

    young patient plays with paper airplanes

    Infectious Diseases

    Our Division of Infectious Diseases is the major referral center for infectious diseases in the Washington, D.C., area, helping thousands of patients each year, and actively promoting prevention through community outreach and education. Learn more about this division.

child with watering can

Advice From Our Experts

Want advice on raising healthy, happy kids? The experts at Children's National are here for you! Get reliable advice from trusted doctors on the Rise and Shine blog. We're sharing our knowledge on everything from children's health to practical parenting tips.

A toddler with a measles rash on his face lies on a pillow while holding a thermometer to his mouth.

Rise and Shine

Five Facts to Know About Measles

A young brown-haired boy in a blue shirt holds his mother's hands and looks at her.

Rise and Shine

Talking to Your Child About Measles

A nurse in blue scrubs gives a baby a vaccination shot in his thigh.

Rise and Shine

Keeping Track of Your Child's Immunizations