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What are the Measles?
Measles, also known as rubeola, is a viral infection of the respiratory
system. Measles is a very contagious disease that can spread through
contact with infected mucus and saliva. The coughing or sneezing of an
infected person can release the virus into the air. The virus can live
on surfaces for several hours. As the infected particles enter the air
and settle on surfaces, anyone within close proximity can become
infected with the measles virus.
Drinking from an infected person’s glass or sharing eating utensils with
an infected person increases your risk of infection.
Measles is a leading cause of death in children. Of the 139,300 global
deaths related to measles in 2010, the World Health Organization (WHO)
reports that most of the victims were under the age of 5 (WHO).
Contact a doctor immediately if you suspect you have measles. If you
have not received a measles vaccine and you come into contact with an
infected person, visit your doctor to receive a measles vaccine within
72 hours of contact to prevent an infection. You can also prevent an
infection with a dose of immuneglobulin taken within six days of contact
with an infected person.
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Who Is at Risk for Measles?
The number of measles cases has significantly dropped in recent decades
due to immunizations. However, the disease has not been completely
eliminated. In fact, there were 222 cases of measles in 2011, according
to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Measles primarily occurs in unvaccinated children. Some parents choose
not to vaccinate their children for fear that vaccines will have adverse
effects on their children. Most children and adults who receive a
measles vaccine do not experience side effects. But in rare cases, the
vaccine has been linked to seizures, deafness, brain damage, and coma.
Some parents believe that the measles vaccine can cause autism in
children. However, numerous studies have yet to find a link between
autism and immunizations.
A vitamin A deficiency is also a risk factor for measles. Children with
too little vitamin A in their diets have a higher risk of catching the
virus.
What Are the Symptoms of Measles?
Symptoms of measles generally appear within 14 days of exposure to the
virus. Symptoms include:
cough
fever
red eyes
light sensitivity
muscle aches
runny nose
sore throat
white spots inside the mouth
A widespread skin rash is a classic sign of measles. This rash can last
up to seven days and generally appears within the first three to five
days of exposure to the virus. A measles rash commonly develops at the
head and slowly spreads to other parts of the body. Signs of a measles
rash include red, itchy bumps.
Diagnosing Measles
Your doctor can confirm measles by examining a skin rash and checking
for symptoms that are characteristic of the disease, such as white spots
in the mouth, fever, cough, and sore throat. If unable to confirm a
diagnosis based on observation, your doctor may order a blood test to
check for the measles virus.
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How to Treat Measles
There is no prescription medication to treat measles. The virus and
symptoms typically disappear within two to three weeks. However, your
doctor may recommend:
acetaminophen to relieve fever and muscle aches
rest to help boost your immune system
plenty of fluids (six to eight glasses of water a day)
humidifier to ease a cough and sore throat
vitamin A supplements
Complications Associated with Measles
It is important to receive a measles vaccine because measles can lead to
life-threatening complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis
(inflammation of the brain). In the United States, about two in 1,000
people die from measles annually. In fact, measles is the fifth leading
cause of death and sickness in children worldwide, reports the Better
Health Channel (Better Health).
Other complications associated with measles may
include:
ear infection
bronchitis
miscarriage or preterm labor
decrease in blood platelets
blindness
severe diarrhea
How to Prevent Measles
Immunizations can help prevent a measles outbreak. The MMR vaccine is a
three-in-one vaccination that can protect you and your children from the
measles, mumps, and rubella. Children can receive their first MMR
vaccination at 12 months (or sooner if traveling internationally), and
their second dose between the ages of 4 and 6. Adults who have never
received an immunization can request the vaccine from their doctor.
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If you or a family member contracts the measles virus, limit interaction
with others. This includes staying home from school or work and avoiding
social activities.
Measles Outlook
Measles has a low death rate in healthy children and adults, and most
people who contract the measles virus recover fully. The risk of
complications is higher in children and adults with a weak immune
system.
You cannot get measles more than once. After you’ve had the virus, you
are immune for life. |