Measles In Minnesota – Early Symptoms Similar To Flu

The Minnesota Department of Health just informed the public about 10 new cases of measles in the Twin Cities Metro Area. That brings the number of cases in Minnesota this year to 18. We are officially entering the cold and flu season, and many of the earliest symptoms of measles are often mistaken for the common cold or flu.

After a person is exposed, it takes about 8-12 days for the first symptoms to begin. The first symptoms are very much like the flu. Those symptoms are high temperature, dry cough, red watery eyes, sore throat, and runny nose. One symptom that may indicate measles early is if Koplik spots appear inside the mouth. They are white spots about the size of a grain of rice.

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It takes at least 2-3 days after the initial symptoms for the measles rash to develop. Muscle aches, headaches, and nausea can also occur.

The Minnesota Department of Health says all of the new cases of measles in Minnesota were among unvaccinated individuals. 7 of the new cases came from the same family.

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Measles is very contagious and can be spread by coughing, sneezing, or even being in the same room. Nationwide cases of the measles this year have topped 1,500. It's the highest amount of cases in the country since 1992.

Measles can lead to hospitalization and even death. There are no anti-viral medications for measles. Usually, it resolves on its own, but supportive treatment could be prescribed. Learn more about the measles on the Minnesota Department of Health's information page.