Measles (red measles)

Measles is caused by a virus and can cause high fever, runny nose, cough, inflammation of the eyelid and a rash.

It damages many parts of the body including cells lining the nose and throat.

Measles also weakens the immune system for months, leading frequently to ear infections and pneumonia. Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) occurs in about 1 out of every 1000 cases, often resulting in brain damage.

In rare cases, measles can trigger the development of a fatal brain disease called Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) which develops years after the attack of measles.

The measles virus is highly contagious. Outbreaks in North America occur periodically in under-immunized populations. It is important to have the full series of immunization in childhood.

For more information on measles please visit the links below:

Public Health Agency of Canada

Caring for Kids

World Health Organization

Canadian Coalition for Immunization Awareness and Promotion