Is that rash caused by chickenpox or measles?

While both chickenpox and measles cause rashes, they are different in appearance. Measles produces flat, red, blotchy rashes (seen here), while chickenpox starts with raised red spots that become fluid-filled blisters (see photo below). — Photos: Wikimedia Commons

Chickenpox and measles infections in children can look similar to one another, especially during the early phases of infection.

This can make it difficult for parents to distinguish between the two infections.

Understanding the difference between these two illnesses is crucial for timely and appropriate care.

Similarities and differences

The similarities between the two infections are as follows:

• Viral infections

  Chickenpox and measles are both caused by a virus.

• Highly contagious

  Both infections are known to be highly contagious and can spread rapidly.

• Mode of transmission

  Chickenpox and measles are both transmitted through inhalation of respiratory droplets from an infected individual.

  In addition, both viruses can be transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, such as respiratory fluid in the case of measles and fluid from ruptured blisters in the case of chickenpox.

• Rash-causing diseases

  Both infections cause the development of a rash on the body.

Meanwhile, the differences between chickenpox and measles are:

• Cause of infection

  Chickenpox and measles are caused by two different viruses.

  Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, while measles is caused by the measles paramyxovirus.

• Type of rash

  The type of rashes produced by each infection are different.

  Chickenpox often begins with raised red spots on the chest, stomach, face and back.

  These can then develop into fluid-filled blisters, which may rupture and leak fluid, ultimately forming scabs.

  In contrast, measles usually starts with a flat, red, and blotchy rash on the forehead that can spread to other parts of the body.

• Associated symptoms

  Apart from the development of rashes, children infected with chickenpox and measles can have other symptoms.

  Those infected with chickenpox often have headaches, loss of appetite and fatigue.

  This is not commonly seen in those infected with measles, who are more likely to develop a runny nose, sore throat and cough instead.

• Duration of infection

  Chickenpox tends to last for a relatively shorter period, usually around four to seven days.

  In contrast, measles may persist for a more extended period, typically lasting 10 to 12 days, and in some cases, even up to several weeks.

While measles produces flat, red, blotchy rashes (as seen in the photo above), chickenpox starts with raised red spots that become fluid-filled blisters.

Treatment and prevention

Treating chickenpox and measles in children focuses on easing symptoms and reducing complications.

This includes taking medications like paracetamol for fever and pain relief, preventing nighttime scratching by wearing gloves, as well as taking a cool bath to alleviate itching.

One of the best preventive measures available to us are vaccines against chickenpox and measles.

For chickenpox, the varicella-zoster vaccine is used.

This vaccine is not included in the National Immunisation Programme (NIP), but is available upon request at many private clinics and hospitals.

The chickenpox vaccines are administered from 12 months of age onwards.

For measles immunisation, the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine is used.

This vaccine is included in the NIP and is administered at nine months of age, and again at one year of age.

To learn more about vaccines for measles and chickenpox, speak with your healthcare provider or paediatrician.

Parents, be alert!

As chickenpox and measles infections in children can appear similar, parents play a crucial role in recognising the differences between the two.

Understanding these differences is vital for ensuring timely and appropriate care for their children’s health.

By being vigilant and informed, parents can take the necessary steps to protect their children and seek medical attention when needed.

Datuk Dr Musa Mohd Nordin is a consultant paediatrician and neonatologist, and Dr Husna Musa is a paediatrician. This article is courtesy of the Malaysian Paediatric Association’s Positive Parenting programme in collaboration with expert partners. For further information, please email [e-mail]. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.