The most noticeable symptom of measles in adults generally is a red, blotchy skin rash. Certain other flu-like symptoms sometimes accompany measles, and some patients also experience or develop diarrhea, earaches or infections, and pneumonia. As long as no complications arise, treating measles in adults is mostly an at-home process involving over-the-counter medication, fluids, and rest. Adult vaccinations are effective in preventing and sometimes stopping measles in adults. Even if an infected person doesn’t seek professional medical treatment, he should notify his doctor of the illness so local health departments can be on alert.
Probably the most visible indicator for recognizing measles in adults is the rash that accompanies the illness. The rash can appear anywhere from three to five days after the adult is exposed to the virus. The rash is generally, red, flat, and blotchy, and usually begins near the face and works its way to other parts of the body. It’s important to avoid scratching or picking the rash, as that can help the illness spread. Adults with measles can be contagious up to four days after the rash disappears.
Additional symptoms of measles are similar to symptoms of other kinds of illnesses. For example, measles in adults can bring flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, muscle aches, and a fever. Coughing, sneezing, sore throats, and runny noses are common symptoms of measles in adults. Some adults who contract measles might experience dry or watery eyes and light sensitivity, and some might develop earaches, white patches lining the cheeks, and even diarrhea. The signs of measles can apply to various illnesses, so to obtain a correct diagnosis a person experiencing the symptoms should seek medical attention even if the rash isn’t present.
Most adult patients with measles are able to heal on their own. Some over-the-counter medications for fever reduction and to soothe the itching rash may be necessary. The person should get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid contact with others as much as possible. If the patient develops other illnesses, such as an infection or pneumonia, a doctor might prescribe antibiotics. Although many cases of measles in adults can clear up on their own with proper care, the person should notify his doctor so it can be reported to the area’s local health department in case of an outbreak.
Adults who haven’t had either of the measles vaccinations should consider receiving adult vaccinations, even if they believe they’ve already contracted the illness. One is the MMR vaccine, which covers measles, mumps, and rubella, and the other is a single measles vaccine. Frequent travelers and people who work or attend school in public fields, such as teachers, college students, health care workers, and day care workers, might need two vaccinations to ensure protection. Measles vaccinations can bring certain side effects, but most are mild such as fever and injection site redness and swelling. Doctors generally don’t recommend vaccinations for women who are pregnant or people who have serious problems with their immune systems.
