Measles is a highly contagious viral infection which affects the respiratory system. It is caused by the measles virus which can survive on surfaces for many hours, thus allowing for easy transmission. The virus settles in the mucus of the nose and throat, producing a range of symptoms which begin manifesting about 7 – 12 days after exposure.

Here are 8 of the most distinctive symptoms of measles which should alert others of the patient’s condition and encourage them to avoid contact with them.

1. Fever

One of the earliest symptoms to make an appearance, most individuals who contract measles run a temperature. The fever associated with measles can get as high as 104 degree Fahrenheit and typically lasts for about a week. The treatment of measles primarily concerns medication that helps bring down this fever. If temperature runs high even after 3 – 5 days of taking medication, the risk of further complications is high and thus, the physician consulted should be alerted of the condition immediately.