Measles is caused by the measles virus, an RNA virus which is closely related to rinderpest (affecting cattle) and canine distemper. [5] Measles is an airborne disease which spreads easily from one person to the next through the coughs and sneezes of infected people. [7]

WHO fact sheet on measles providing key facts and information on signs and symptoms, who is at risk, transmission, treatment, prevention and WHO's work on in this area.

Key points Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious complications. Symptoms usually begin 7 to 14 days after infection. Measles can be dangerous, especially for babies and young children.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that causes a high fever, rash, cough and red eyes. It can lead to life-threatening complications, like brain inflammation and pneumonia.

Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable infectious disease caused by measles virus.

Find out about measles, a highly infectious viral illness that can be very unpleasant and sometimes lead to serious complications.

Measles is transmitted via droplets from the nose, mouth or throat of infected persons. Initial symptoms, which usually appear 10–14 days after infection, include high fever, a runny nose, bloodshot eyes, and tiny white spots on the inside of the mouth.

The measles virus (MV) (scientific name Morbillivirus hominis), is a single-stranded, negative-sense, enveloped, non-segmented RNA virus of the genus Morbillivirus in the family Paramyxoviridae.

A vaccine can prevent measles infection. Most people recover from measles in about 10 days. It usually doesn't cause long-term medical issues. But measles can be serious and even deadly. This is especially true for children younger than age 5 and people with severely weakened immune systems.

This review covers clinical presentations and complications of measles, current recommendations, and the epidemiologic background of measles.