New Delhi: Measles is an airborne infection that can be extremely dangerous for both children and adults. It remains a global problem. Early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and robust prevention are crucial to combat measles.
How Measles Spreads
The measles virus is highly contagious. The infection spreads through coughing or sneezing, which spreads tiny droplets into the air. Symptoms typically appear a week or two after infection. High fever occurs first, followed by difficulty breathing and a sequential skin change. This includes fever, respiratory symptoms, and conjunctivitis, followed by a rash that appears on the face and body.
Causes of Measles
The infection spreads through droplets from coughing or sneezing, through direct contact with nasal or throat secretions, and, in rare cases, through contaminated objects.
Unvaccinated young children, those with weakened immune systems, and travelers who are not vaccinated are most vulnerable.
Lack of access to two-dose vaccination is a major factor in both endemic and import-related cases.
Diseases often spread in communities with low vaccination rates.
Causes include poor access to healthcare and declining regional vaccination rates.
Measles Symptoms
Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after infection and develop in a specific sequence. Measles begins with a high fever, often exceeding 104°F, and symptoms such as a cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. This is followed by the appearance of the characteristic Koplik spots, followed by a skin rash.
Early Stage
High fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis.
Koplik Spots
Small white spots appear inside the mouth two to three days after symptoms begin.
Appearance of the Rash
After 3-5 days, a red, blotchy rash appears, starting from the hairline and face and spreading down the torso and extremities. The rash is accompanied by fever and body aches.
Loss of Appetite
Some patients may experience loss of appetite, weakness, or swollen lymph nodes. After the rash appears, the immune system may weaken, increasing the risk of other infections.
What to Do for Measles
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, coconut water, lemonade, soup, and ORS, to avoid dehydration.
Eat soft and easily digestible foods, such as porridge, porridge, lentils, yogurt, soup, and well-cooked vegetables.
Include foods rich in vitamin A and vitamin C, such as carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, oranges, sweet limes, and papaya.
Get plenty of rest and give your body time to fight the infection.
Take medication for fever and other symptoms as directed by your doctor. Your doctor may also prescribe vitamin A supplements if needed for children.
Keep the room clean and ventilated, and allow the patient adequate rest.
What not to do with measles
Avoid fried, spicy, and processed foods, as these can increase digestive problems.
Avoid cold drinks, overly sweetened beverages, and caffeinated beverages.
Do not ignore dehydration. If vomiting, diarrhea, or high fever occurs, immediately increase fluid intake and consult a doctor if necessary.
Do not take antibiotics or other medications without consulting a doctor. Measles is a viral infection, and antibiotics are only prescribed for bacterial infections.
Avoid crowds or contact with other people, as measles is a highly contagious disease.
Do not give aspirin to children, as it can cause serious complications.
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