Also known as rubeola, is a common childhood illness, although adults also are susceptible. Measles is most contagious before the rash appears. This viral disease is characterized by fever, cough, sneezing, swollen eyelids, sore throat, rash and tiny white spots on the lining of the cheek. In a small number of cases (particularly adolescents and adults) pneumonia and encephalitis may develop. The measles vaccine is effective and is usually given as a combined measles-mumps-rubelia (M.M.R.) inoculation. People born after 1957 require 2 shots for full protection.