All you need to know about Measles: Causes, symptoms, treatment

The measles virus can cause extremely contagious illness–Measles. When a person is infected with this virus, the infection can continue up to ten days, during which time the person may also get fever and rashes as well as other illnesses such ear infections, diarrhea, and pneumonia.

WHY ARE MEASLES VACCINES IMPORTANT?

The percentage of children who have had a measles vaccination in recent years is not publicly available information. India has immunized more than 324 million children against measles-rubella through a vaccine campaign, according to data gathered between 2017 and 2020, as published by WHO.

The measles vaccine is quite effective, and there is very little risk that a child who has had it will contract the illness. This is the fundamental justification for the government’s Universal Immunization Program’s free distribution of the MR (Measles-Rubella) vaccine. There is no question that unless a sizable majority of children are inoculated against it across all geographies, measles cannot be eradicated from India.

HOW ARE MEASLES TRANSMITTED?

Measles has the ability to spread quickly because it is brought on by a virus that starts in the nose and throat of an infected kid or adult. As a result, when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, droplets are released into the air. As a result, they run the risk of spreading an infection when others breathe them in. Patient isolation is essential because, in real life, infected particles can linger in the air for up to an hour.

WHAT ARE THE MEASLES SYMPTOMS?

It has flu-like symptoms, including a high fever, exhaustion, a persistent cough, red or bloodshot eyes, and a runny nose. Red rashes that first appear on the head and subsequently spread to numerous other body areas are another symptom of measles. A sore throat, white patches in the mouth, muscle ache, and sensitivity to light are some more signs of the measles (light can cause pain in the eyes of an infected person).

WHAT CAN BE DONE TO PREVENT MEASLES?

Anyone who hasn’t received the measles vaccination is at danger of getting it. Before the vaccination was developed, practically anyone could catch the illness. A person is more likely to be immune to the measles if they have had it or have received the vaccination for it. However, if a new strain of the virus emerges, everyone may be equally vulnerable.

WHAT IS THE MEASLES TREATMENT PROTOCOL?

There is currently no treatment for measles. The virus must run its course, which typically takes between 10 and 14 days, before a person can recover.

Here are some suggestions for treating the patient:

  • Using prescription medicines for fever, aches, or pains. Typically, paracetamol is administered for fever, bodily aches, etc.
  • Get plenty of rest as the body needs time to recover.
  • Drink enough fluids and gargle with salt water at regular intervals.
  • Avoid harsh light if it hurts your eyes.
  • Vitamin A supplements can reduce complications of measles, such as diarrhea and pneumonia.
  • If the child is seriously ill and possibly in need of life-saving medical attention, consult a doctor.

 

If left untreated, measles can be fatal, especially in pregnant women, older adults, children under the age of five, and those with compromised immune systems.

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