What does the measles look like?

The rash associated with measles features flat red spots often topped by small raised bumps, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The rash typically occurs on the face near the hairline and descends down the neck to the trunk, arms, legs and feet.

Tiny white spots, called Koplik spots, may appear on the inside of the mouth two to three days after the onset of symptoms, notes the CDC. Measles’ characteristic rash does not occur until three to five days after the onset of symptoms. Early signs of measles begin seven to 14 days after infection and include cough, high fever, runny nose and conjunctivitis, which causes red, watery eyes.