Measles Outbreak: All That You Need To Know About The Contagious Disease

When an infected person speaks, coughs, or sneezes, droplets containing the virus are released into the air which can then be inhaled by another person, who can become infected if they are not immune.

A child suffering from measles

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New Delhi: Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that mostly affects children. It is caused by a virus called measles virus (MeV) which is spread through the air by breathing, coughing, or sneezing. When an infected person speaks, coughs, or sneezes, droplets containing the virus are released into the air and these droplets can then be inhaled by another person, who can become infected if they are not immune. Prior to the widespread use of the measles vaccine, the disease was a common cause of death among children.

Signs And Symptoms Of Measles:

The signs and symptoms of measles typically appear about 7-14 days after a person is infected with the virus. They include:

• Fever: It is usually one of the first signs of measles, and it can be quite high, often greater than 104 F along with cough, runny nose, and sore throat.
• Rash: A characteristic rash is one of the most notable symptoms of measles. The rash typically appears 3-5 days after the onset of fever, and it starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
• Koplik's spots: These are small, blue-white spots with red borders that appear inside the cheeks, usually 2-3 days before the rash appears.
• Swelling of lymph nodes: Swelling of the lymph nodes, particularly in the neck area, can also occur if one is suffering from measles.
• Fatigue: A person with measles may feel very tired and weak.

These symptoms can last for up to two weeks and it's important to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or complications develop.

Treatment Of Measles:

The treatment for measles typically focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. There is no specific treatment for the virus itself. It includes:

• Supportive care: This includes getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and discomfort.
• Vitamin A supplements: In some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe a high dose of vitamin A to help boost the immune system and reduce the severity of the disease.
• Antibiotics: Sometimes, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections that can occur as a complication of measles.
• Hospitalization: In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide supportive care and to monitor for complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis.
• Prevention of Spread: As measles is highly contagious, it's important to keep the infected person isolated to prevent the spread of the virus.

It's important to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or complications develop. Early treatment can help to prevent serious complications and death from measles.