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Koplik spots are a symptom of measles, a highly contagious viral disease. These spots appear in the mouth 24 to 36 hours before the characteristic rash develops. They are described as bluish-white specks surrounded by bright red areas, approximately 1/32 inch in diameter.1

Measles itself is marked by fever, cough, conjunctivitis, and a rash. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, or even death, especially in unvaccinated individuals. While measles infection can cause a temporary weakening of the immune system, making individuals susceptible to other infections, vaccination with the MMR vaccine can prevent the disease.12

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  1. measles
  2. measles: Top Questions

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