Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that has been affecting humans for centuries. Despite the availability of safe and effective vaccines, measles continues to cause outbreaks worldwide, especially in areas with low vaccination coverage. This article provides a complete guide to understanding measles, including its causes, symptoms, prevention, treatment, and why vaccination remains the best defense.
What Is Measles?
Measles, also known as rubeola, is an acute viral respiratory illness caused by the measles virus, a member of the Paramyx oviridae family. It spreads rapidly among unvaccinated individuals through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Measles is not just a childhood illness it can affect people of all ages, particularly those who have not been vaccinated or who have weakened immune systems. Without treatment, measles can lead to severe complications and, in some cases, death.
Causes of Measles:
The primary cause of measles is infection with the measles virus, which targets the respiratory system. Once the virus enters the body, it multiplies in the nose, throat, and lymphatic system before spreading throughout the bloodstream.
How Measles Spreads?
- Airborne transmission: The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has coughed or sneezed.
- Direct contact: Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face, nose, or mouth.
- Close proximity: Measles is so contagious that if one person has it, 90% of close contacts who are not immune will also get infected.
Risk Factors:
- Not being vaccinated.
- Traveling to areas with ongoing outbreaks.
- Weakened immune system due to illness or medication.
- Infants too young to receive the vaccine.
Symptoms of Measles:
Symptoms typically appear 10-14 days after exposure and progress in stages.
Early Symptoms:
- High fever (often rising above 104°F / 40°C).
- Runny nose.
- Dry cough.
- Sore throat.
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis).
Characteristic Symptom:
Small white spots with bluish-white centers appear inside the mouth on the inner cheek—considered a classic sign of measles.
Later Symptoms:
- Rash: A red, blotchy rash usually starts on the face and spreads to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.
- Severe fatigue.
- Body aches.
- Loss of appetite.
The rash typically lasts 5-6 days before fading.
Complications of Measles:
Measles is more than just a rash and fever it can cause serious and life-threatening complications.
- Ear infections leading to possible hearing loss.
- Pneumonia the most common cause of measles-related deaths.
- Encephalitis swelling of the brain that can cause seizures or brain damage.
- Severe diarrhea and dehydration especially dangerous for young children.
- Pregnancy complications miscarriage, premature birth, or low birth weight.
Children under 5 and adults over 20 are at the highest risk of complications.
How Is Measles Diagnosed?
Doctors usually diagnose measles based on:
- Medical history recent exposure or lack of vaccination.
- Physical exam presence of Koplik’s spots and rash.
- Laboratory tests blood tests, throat swabs, or urine samples to detect the virus or confirm immunity.
Treatment of Measles:
There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles, but supportive care can ease symptoms and prevent complications.
Common Treatments:
- Fever reducers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen).
- Hydration plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
- Rest to support the immune system.
- Vitamin A supplements recommended by the WHO to reduce the severity of measles, especially in children.
Hospitalization:
Severe cases may require hospitalization for intravenous fluids, antibiotics for secondary infections, or treatment for pneumonia or encephalitis.
Prevention of Measles:
The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination.
MMR Vaccine:
- The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
- Two doses are required for maximum protection:
- First dose at 12-15 months of age.
- Second dose at 4-6 years of age.
- Effectiveness: 97% protection after two doses.
Herd Immunity:
High vaccination coverage (at least 95% of the population) is crucial to prevent outbreaks and protect vulnerable individuals such as infants and people with weakened immune systems.
Global Burden of Measles:
Despite the availability of vaccines, measles remains a global health challenge:
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles killed over 128,000 people in 2021, mostly children under 5.
- Outbreaks are more common in regions with low vaccination coverage, political instability, or weak healthcare systems.
- Even in developed countries, vaccine hesitancy has led to localized outbreaks.
Living With Measles Home Care Tips:
If you or your child develops measles, supportive care at home can help:
- Use a humidifier to ease cough and sore throat.
- Keep the room dim if light sensitivity is present.
- Provide plenty of fluids and nutritious foods.
- Isolate the patient to prevent spreading the virus.
Conclusion:
Measles remains one of the most contagious diseases in the world, but it is also one of the most preventable. Vaccination offers strong protection and is the safest way to avoid outbreaks. While most people recover fully, measles can cause severe complications, making prevention essential.
A strong commitment to vaccination programs, public awareness, and global cooperation is the key to eliminating measles once and for all.
