What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the measles virus. It primarily affects children but can also occur in adults. The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.
Symptoms of Measles
Measles typically starts with mild to moderate fever, accompanied by a persistent cough, runny nose, inflamed eyes (conjunctivitis), and sore throat. It is followed by a rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. How is Measles Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of measles is primarily based on the characteristic symptoms and can be confirmed with laboratory tests, such as antibody tests or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests.
Complications of Measles
Measles can lead to severe complications, particularly in young children and immunocompromised individuals. These complications might include pneumonia, encephalitis, and subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), which is a rare but fatal degenerative disease of the central nervous system.
Prevention of Measles
The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The measles vaccine is usually administered as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. The first dose is typically given at 12-15 months of age, with a second dose at 4-6 years of age. How is Measles Treated?
There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Management focuses on supportive care, such as rest, hydration, and antipyretics to reduce fever. Vitamin A supplementation is recommended for severe cases, as it has been shown to reduce the severity and duration of the illness.
What are the Long-Term Impacts?
Most children recover from measles without long-term effects, but some may experience lasting impairments due to complications. For instance, measles-induced encephalitis can lead to permanent brain damage.
Why is Vaccination Important?
Vaccination is crucial because it not only protects the vaccinated individual but also contributes to herd immunity, reducing the spread of the virus in the community. This is particularly important for protecting those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and individuals with certain medical conditions.
What Should Parents Do if Their Child is Exposed?
If a child is exposed to measles, parents should contact their healthcare provider immediately. If the child has not been vaccinated, the provider may recommend post-exposure prophylaxis with the MMR vaccine or immune globulin to reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Global Perspective on Measles
Despite the availability of an effective vaccine, measles remains a significant public health issue in many parts of the world, particularly in regions with low vaccination coverage. Outbreaks can occur rapidly in under-vaccinated populations, leading to high morbidity and mortality rates.
