Measles is an infectious disease caused by the measles virus. Domestic outbreak decreased sharply by thorough vaccination, and Japan became elimination state of measles in 2015. However, recently, infections have been reported in various parts of the country, mainly imported cases from overseas. According to the virus isolation and detection status, since November 2010, only genotypes originating from overseas have been detected. Globally, measles control measures, such as improving vaccination rates, are being strengthened to eliminate measles, but measles remains the leading cause of death among children under the age of five in developing countries.

About measles

Measles is an infectious disease caused by the measles virus and is commonly called "measles". Cold-like symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and rash appear. Serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis may develop.
The route of infection is airborne, droplet, and contact, and it is highly contagious, and almost 100% of infected people who do not have immunity develop symptoms.
Adults as well as children need attention.

• Measles Q&A (Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare) (External link)

What is the incubation period?
It is said that it takes about 10 to 12 days for symptoms to appear after being infected.

What are the symptoms?
Typical measles symptoms include 1) fever, 2) generalized rash, and 3) mucosal symptoms (cold symptoms) such as cough, runny nose, and bloodshot eyes.
After an incubation period of about 10 to 12 days after infection, a fever of about 38°C and cold symptoms begin, and after a fever of 2 to 4 days, a rash appears along with a high fever of 39°C or higher. One to two days before and after the appearance of the rash, small white spots called Koplik's spots may be observed on the cheek mucosa.
Since the immune system of the whole body is weakened, complications such as pneumonia and otitis media may occur, and encephalitis may develop.
The initial symptoms of measles are similar to those of the common cold. It is also said that people can be contagious from the day before symptoms appear.

If you have any symptoms that concern you, please see a doctor as soon as possible.

Don't think it's a cold, and if you have any symptoms that bother you or if you feel unwell, go see a doctor as soon as possible. In addition, if you have a fever or rash, inform the medical institution in advance by phone or other means, check how to consult, and then wear a mask before going to the examination.

If you have been in contact with a measles patient

If you have been in contact with a measles patient, take your temperature twice a day, in the morning and at night. If you have suspected symptoms of measles (fever, cough, runny nose, excessive tears, etc.), call a medical institution in advance to tell them that you have been in contact with a measles patient, and then consult about how to see a doctor. please do.