What is a common name for measles?

Measles is commonly known as rubeola. This viral infection is characterized by a distinctive red rash, high fever, and respiratory symptoms. The name "rubeola" helps differentiate it from other diseases with similar presentations, such as rubella, which is often confused with measles due to the similarity in names but refers to a different viral infection. Understanding this terminology is critical for public health communication and understanding vaccine-preventable diseases.

The other options refer to different diseases: varicella, commonly known as chickenpox, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus; rubella, also known as German measles, is caused by a separate virus; and scarlet fever is a bacterial illness caused by group A Streptococcus and presents with a different set of symptoms. Knowing these distinctions is important for identifying and managing various infectious diseases.