Measles outbreak in the US: Dos and don’ts for people affected by this contagious disease

Media reports say measles, a disease of highly contagious nature, claims the lives of school-age children in the United States. It reportedly was the first measles-related death in America in more than a decade. The tragic incident and more than 150 confirmed lawsuits in Texas since late January 2025 have reportedly been a concern for the US government. More cases may occur in measles outbreak areas. Be careful if you or your child is affected by this airborne illness. Following the DOS and DOS list will help prevent this disease and support your recovery journey.

What is measles?

It is a highly contagious disease caused by the measles virus, causing symptoms like rashes and flu. “It can make you feel very unwell and even death,” says Dr. Saima Shabnam, an emergency and critical care specialist. Everyone can get measles, but children are mostly affected by it. According to the World Health Organization, in 2023 there were around 107,500 deaths from the disease around the world. The list mainly included unvaccinated children under the age of five. “Infection weakens the immune system and makes the body vulnerable to other complications such as pneumonia, ear infections and even brain inflammation,” says Taranato S., an infectious disease expert.

What are the symptoms of measles?

During the outbreak of measles, we know the symptoms:

• heat
• Dry cough
• snot
• sore throat
• Inflamed eyes
• The bluish white dots are in the center of the red background inside the inner lining of the cheeks
• Skin rash made up of large, flat spots

Measles outbreak: Things to do and avoid if you are infected

If you are infected, you should follow the DOS and DOS list to avoid spreading it and prevent complications. Ear infections and diarrhea are some of the complications that people with measles may experience, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

What this should do and should be avoided:

1. Isolate myself

If you have it, isolate yourself to prevent the spread of the virus. “Be away from others, including your family, for at least four days after you get the rash,” says Dr. Shabnam. You can also wait for your doctor to make sure you don’t spread it to others. Isolating yourself also gives you time to rest. “Your body needs energy to fight the virus, so it’s important to take as much rest as possible,” says Dr. Tharanath.

2. Maintain hydration

Hydration is important not only for skin health, but also for proper functioning of the entire body. It is important to know that high fever and sweating can lead to dehydration during measles outbreaks. “So drink plenty of water, fresh vegetables and fruit juices and coconut water,” suggests Dr. Taranato.

3. Going to the bath

Among the several reports of measles outbreaks, you may wonder if taking a bath would be helpful. “You may take a bath if you are affected, but you should use lukewarm water as high temperatures can cause discomfort,” says Dr. Shabnam. You can also add soothing components such as oatmeal to the water to facilitate itching produced by the rash.

4. Eat nutritious foods

“Eating nutritious foods helps the immune system fight the virus,” says Dr. Shabnam. Enjoy vitamin A-rich foods such as carrots, dairy products and lush greenery. “These foods help strengthen your immune system and speed up your recovery,” says Dr. Tharanath.

5. Take the medicine

Know that high fever is a common symptom of measles outbreaks. According to the UK National Health Service, if you have high temperatures, you can take paracetamol or ibuprofen. “You can administer over-the-counter fever-reducing medications like paracetamol to reduce fever and relieve discomfort, but check with your doctor first,” says Dr. Tharanath.

6. Use a humidifier or steam intake

A humidifier or vapor inhalation can help relieve cough and throat irritation that you should remember during the development of measles. “Using a humidifier in your room can add moisture to the air, helping to relieve throat irritation and congestion. In addition, inhaling vapour from a bowl of hot water may help relieve breathing difficulties,” says Dr. Shabnam.

7. Avoid spicy, acidic or oily foods

If you are affected by the outbreak of measles, it is best to avoid too spicy, acidic, oily, or fried foods. “It can cause throat irritation and is difficult to digest. Sour and acidic foods such as citrus fruits, vinegar and tomatoes can make the mouth and throat more uncomfortable, especially if there is pain in the mouth,” says Dr. Shabnam. You should also avoid very cold or very hot foods as they can cause sore throats. Processed junk foods lacking essential nutrients should be replaced with easy-to-digestible homemade meals that provide your body with the vitamins and minerals needed for recovery.

8. Do not use harsh soap

It’s good to take a bath or shower even if you have measles, but try to go for mild skincare products. “Using powerful soaps and skin care products like moisturizers can irritate your skin. Dr. Shabnam said:

9. Don’t skip meals

If you don’t do well, your appetite may be hit. “Even if you have a low appetite, we don’t recommend skipping meals. Your body needs the right nutrition to heal and recover,” says Dr. Tharanath. But instead of seeking super processed foods, try to eat healthy foods every day.

There are many reports of measles outbreaks in the US, so you may be worried. If you have measles, don’t worry as you will need to follow a set of rules. In this way, you will not spread it to others and will not experience complications like ear infections.