measles
by catherine alderstein·
exclusion period
exclude for at least 4 days from the onset of the rash
symptoms
- •high fever
- •cough, runny nose, sore eyes
- •small white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
- •red blotchy rash starting on the face and spreading downward
- •generally feeling very unwell
when can your child return to childcare?
the child can return at least 4 days after the rash first appeared, and when they are well enough to participate in activities.
do siblings or contacts need to stay home?
unimmunised contacts should be excluded for 14 days after the first day of the rash in the last case. immunised contacts are not excluded.
treatment notes for parents
there is no specific treatment for measles. rest, fluids, and paracetamol for fever. measles is extremely contagious and a notifiable disease — the public health unit will be informed. vaccination is the best prevention (MMR vaccine at 12 months and 18 months).
view all exclusion periods
the complete illness-by-illness guide
this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service.