Measles
can be defined as an infectious viral disease causing fever
and a red rash, typically occurring in childhood. In Dutch
language "masal" means "blemish". In Middle
English it was "meseles", that ultimately became
"measles".
We commonly hear about two types
of measles, one is the Rubella or German measles which is
a simpler disease that lasts for just three days called as
"3-day measles" and the second one is the regular
Measles, also known as morbilli, rubeola, or red measles which
is a highly contagious infection caused by the measles virus.
Out of these two types of measles, the rubella, though considered
to be a milder disease can cause significant birth defects
if an infected pregnant woman passes the virus to her unborn
child. Rubeola, on the other hand can become a serious illness
lasting for several days, say 7-10 days and can cause other
serious complications like pneumonia, diarrhea, brain inflammation,
etc.
Measles is a viral infection of
the respiratory system. It is a very contagious disease that
can very easily 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 lives on surfaces
for several hours. As the infected particles enter the air
and settle on surfaces, anyone coming into close contact to
it can become infected with the measles virus. Using an infected
person’s glass for drinking or sharing eating utensils
with an infected person increases the risk of infection.
Generally, symptoms of measles
appear within 14 days of exposure to the virus. One may experience
cough, fever, red eyes, light sensitivity, muscle aches, runny
nose, sore throat, and white spots inside the mouth. A widespread
skin rash is a classic sign of measles. This rash can last
up to 7 days and generally appears within the first 3-5 days
of exposure to the virus. A measles rash commonly develops
at the head and slowly spreads to other parts of the body.
Measles rash may include red, itchy bumps.
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.
Measles is highly contagious in
a community and the spread stops when susceptible hosts are
not there. Most of the measles victims survive except a small
0.1-0.2% and the percentage may go up to 10-20% in communities
subjected to high malnutrition, compromised immunity levels,
and insufficient healthcare facilities. Vitamin A deficiency
is also a reason for catching the infection.
Detection of measles-specific IgM
antibody and measles RNA are the most common lab methods for
confirming measles infection. Healthcare providers do obtain
both throat swab/nasopharyngeal swab as well as serum sample.
The number of people contracting
the measles virus has come down greatly in the past decades
due to immunizations. Anyone coming into contact with an infected
person can prevent infection by getting a measles vaccine
within 72 hours. Also, a dose of immunoglobulin taken within
6 days of contact with an infected person will give some protection
or can change the clinical course of the infection.
Once infected, a simple acetaminophen
can be given to relieve fever and muscle aches. Ample rest
will boost the immune system. Vitamin A supplements will help.
Using a humidifier will ease the cough and sore throat. Plenty
of fluids need to given to the infected (6-8 glasses of water
per day).
Vaccination recommended for measles
for children is one dose of MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
combined vaccine, which is approximately 93% effective at
preventing measles; two doses are approximately 97% effective.
Almost everyone who do not respond to the measles component
of the first dose of MMR vaccine at age 12 months or older
will respond to the second dose. Similarly, adults, post-high
school children, and healthcare professionals who do not have
evidence of immunity (previous vaccination or previous measles
history) are advised vaccination. International travelers
need to get vaccinated.
Is it not prudent to prevent measles
rather than treating it?
Watch the Video: Measles Explained
"We've
had enough of talkers. It's time for a doer" - Bobby
Jindal
Image credit:www.crooksandliars.com
"We've had enough
of talkers. It's time for a doer. I'm not running
for president to be somebody. I'm running for president
to do something."
- Bobby Jindal, the country's first elected Indian-American
Louisiana governor, said in Kenner, La., when, he
joined the huge GOP field in June.
Disclaimer: The above content is provided
for information and awareness purpose only. It is not prescriptive
or suggestive or meant to replaces your qualified physician's
advice or consultation.
