Measles

/ˈmiː.zəlz/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, cough, runny nose, and a widespread rash.

Measles can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.

A disease caused by the measles virus, primarily affecting children.

Vaccination has significantly reduced the incidence of measles in many regions.

An infectious disease caused by the Morbillivirus, spread through respiratory droplets.

After the outbreak, public health officials urged everyone to check their measles vaccination status.

An illness that was once common but is now preventable through vaccination.

Parents are encouraged to get their children vaccinated against measles before school starts.

Symptoms of measles include a distinct red rash and Koplik spots inside the mouth.

The child showed classic signs of measles, including the characteristic rash.

Middle English 'maseles', from 'masel' meaning 'morbili' or 'morbilli', which referred to a disease or illness.

measles outbreak

A sudden increase in cases of measles in a particular area.

measles vaccination

The immunization given to prevent measles.

catch measles

To become infected with the measles virus.

vaccination

The act of injecting a vaccine to produce immunity against a disease.

infection

The invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in body tissues.

Measles is sometimes colloquially referred to as 'the red measles' to distinguish it from other similar diseases.

If you had the red measles as a child, you might have immunity now.