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Treatment of Measles

In most children, rest and simple measures to reduce a fever are all that are needed for a full recovery. If there are no complications, symptoms usually disappear in 7-10 days.

There is no specific treatment for measles. Once the rash starts it is a matter of treating the symptoms until the body’s immune system fights off the virus.

  • Check the child's temperature, and try and get it down. Keep the child cool but not cold.
  • Use liquid baby paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve fever and aches and pains – do not give aspirin to children under 16.
  • Closing curtains or dimming lights can help light sensitivity.
  • Damp cotton wool can be used to clean away any crustiness around the eyes. Use one piece of cotton wool per wipe for each eye. Gently clean the eye from inner to outer lid.
  • Cough medicines are of little help. Try placing a bowl of water in the room to make it more humid which can relieve a cough. Children over 12 months old may benefit from a teaspoon of lemon juice and two teaspoons of honey in a glass of warm water. Note that honey should not be given to babies under the age of 12 months.
  • Avoid dehydration. Feverish small children rapidly lose water, and this makes a cough worse. Children should drink as much as possible to prevent dehydration.
  • Ideally, you should keep your child away from others for at least 7 days after the start of the rash and inform friends, family and any other contacts.

While antibiotics are of no use to treat the virus, they may be prescribed for any secondary bacterial infections. In severe cases, especially when there are more serious complications, hospital treatment may be required.