Henry Koplik, in 1856,was the one who discovered the features of Measles. The name "measles" comes from the Middle English "maselen" meaning "many little spots" referring to the rash that is characteristic feature of measles. Rubeola refers to the red color of the rash. Measles is common in childhood, with more than 90% of infants and children infected by 12 years of age. Measles is among the most readily transmitted of all infectious diseases. The average time between exposure to the measles virus and the development of symptoms is from 10 to 14 days.

Measles is due to a virus that is easily spread, known as the 'paramyxo' virus. Measles can also be passed by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected persons or objects contaminated with the measles virus.