Measles is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by the
measles virus, a member of the
Paramyxoviridae family. It is characterized by symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, inflamed eyes, and a distinctive red rash. Measles can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Measles is primarily spread through
respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can live in the air for up to two hours after the infected person leaves an area. It is one of the most contagious diseases known, with a basic
reproduction number (R0) of 12-18, meaning one person can potentially infect 12 to 18 others in a susceptible population.
Symptoms usually appear 10 to 14 days after exposure and can include:
High fever
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
Koplik's spots (tiny white spots inside the mouth)
Red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward
The most effective way to prevent measles is through
vaccination. The
MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is highly effective, providing long-lasting immunity. Two doses of the vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles. It is recommended for children to receive the first dose at 12-15 months of age and the second dose at 4-6 years of age.
While most people recover from measles, some may experience severe complications, such as:
Pneumonia Encephalitis (brain swelling)
Diarrhea
Ear infections
Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare but fatal disease of the central nervous system
Complications are more common in children under 5 and adults over 20, as well as in those with compromised immune systems.
Measles can be diagnosed through clinical examination and confirmed with laboratory tests, such as
serology tests that detect specific antibodies or
RT-PCR tests that identify the virus's genetic material. Early diagnosis is crucial for controlling outbreaks and preventing further transmission.
There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Care is supportive, focusing on alleviating symptoms and managing complications. This may include:
Hydration and nutritional support
Antipyretics for fever
Vitamin A supplementation, which can reduce the severity of measles in children
Hospitalization may be required for severe cases or complications.
Why is Measles Still a Concern?
Despite being preventable through vaccination, measles remains a significant public health concern due to
vaccine hesitancy and gaps in vaccination coverage. Outbreaks can occur in communities with low vaccination rates, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Global efforts to improve vaccination rates and surveillance are crucial in eradicating measles.
Conclusion
Measles is a highly contagious disease that poses significant health risks, especially to vulnerable populations. Vaccination remains the cornerstone of prevention, and maintaining high vaccination coverage is essential to prevent outbreaks. Efforts to educate communities about the benefits of vaccination and to address vaccine hesitancy are vital in the global fight against measles.
