Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system and can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.

What is Measles?

Measles, also known as rubeola, is caused by the measles virus. It is spread through direct contact with an infected person's respiratory secretions, such as mucus and saliva, or through airborne transmission when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Symptoms of Measles

The symptoms of measles typically develop within 10-14 days after exposure to the virus and can include:

• Fever, which can range from mild to severe
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• Sore throat
• White spots inside the mouth and throat (Koplik spots)
• A characteristic rash, which usually appears 3-5 days after the onset of fever, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body

Complications of Measles

Measles can lead to serious complications, including:

• Ear infections (otitis media)
• Pneumonia
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare but serious condition that can occur years after the initial infection
• Death, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems

Treatments for Measles

There is no specific treatment for measles, but symptoms can be managed with:

• Rest and hydration to help the body recover from the infection
• Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to reduce fever and relieve headache and body aches
• Antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections, such as pneumonia or ear infections
• Vitamin A supplements, which have been shown to reduce the severity of measles and prevent complications, especially in children

Prevention of Measles

The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against measles and other serious diseases.

• Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, typically at 12-15 months and 4-6 years of age
• Adults who have not been vaccinated or have not had measles should consider getting vaccinated, especially if they work in healthcare or travel to areas where measles is common
• Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with individuals who are infected, can also help prevent the spread of measles

Outbreaks and Epidemiology

Measles outbreaks can occur when a large number of people are not vaccinated or have weakened immune systems. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles is still a significant public health concern, with tens of thousands of cases reported worldwide each year.

• Before widespread vaccination, measles was a common childhood illness, with nearly all children developing the disease by the age of 15
• In recent years, there have been several large-scale outbreaks of measles in countries with low vaccination rates or where vaccine coverage has declined
• The WHO and other global health organizations continue to work towards eliminating measles through improved vaccination efforts and enhanced surveillance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease.

How is measles spread?
Measles is spread through respiratory droplets and contact with infected people.

What are the symptoms of measles?
Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash.

Is measles contagious?
Yes, measles is highly contagious before and after the rash appears.

Can measles be prevented?
Measles can be prevented with vaccination, typically given as part of the MMR vaccine.

How effective is the measles vaccine?
The measles vaccine is approximately 93% effective after one dose and 97% effective after two doses.

What are complications of measles?
Complications may include ear infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis, particularly in young children and people with weakened immune systems.

Can adults get measles?
Yes, adults who have not been vaccinated or have not had measles can contract the disease.

Is measles treatable?
There is no specific treatment for measles, but symptoms can be managed with rest, hydration, and medication to reduce fever and discomfort.

How long does measles last?
The duration of measles typically ranges from 7 to 10 days after the onset of the rash.