Measles synonyms

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects children. It is characterized by a distinctive rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Measles is caused by the measles virus and is spread through respiratory droplets from an infected person.

Common synonyms for measles include:

• Rubeola: This term is often used interchangeably with measles. Rubeola is derived from the Latin word "rubeus," meaning red, referring to the characteristic rash associated with the infection.


• Red Measles: This term emphasizes the red rash that typically appears on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body.


• Hard Measles: This term is used to distinguish measles from German measles (rubella), which is a different viral infection with milder symptoms.


• Measles Virus: Refers to the specific virus responsible for causing measles. It belongs to the Morbillivirus genus.


• Morbilli: This term is derived from the Latin word "morbus," meaning disease. It is an older term used to describe measles.

It is important to note that measles can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. These complications may include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is highly effective in preventing measles and its associated complications.