Measles: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

What is Measles?

Measles is an infectious disease caused by the measles virus (a paramyxovirus). It primarily affects the respiratory system and spreads through airborne transmission when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

How Measles Spreads

The measles virus is incredibly contagious—up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to it will contract the disease. It spreads through:

• Airborne droplets from coughs and sneezes.
• Direct contact with infected nasal or throat secretions.
• Contaminated surfaces (the virus can survive in the air and on surfaces for hours).

Who is at Risk?

Certain groups are more vulnerable to measles complications:

• Children under 5 years old (especially unvaccinated infants).
• Unvaccinated individuals (due to personal choice or lack of access to healthcare).
• Immunocompromised individuals (such as those undergoing chemotherapy or with HIV).
• Malnourished children, particularly those with vitamin A deficiency.
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Symptoms of Measles

Measles symptoms typically appear 10–14 days after exposure and progress in stages:

Early Symptoms (Prodromal Phase)

• High fever (often above 101°F or 38.5°C).
• Persistent cough.
• Runny nose and sneezing.
• Sore throat.
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis).

Later Symptoms (Rash and Severe Illness)

• Koplik’s spots – small white spots inside the mouth, a hallmark of measles.
• Red, blotchy rash – starts on the face and spreads downward to the rest of the body.
• Severe fatigue and loss of appetite.

In some cases, complications like pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), or ear infections may arise, especially in young children and immunocompromised individuals.

Causes and Risk Factors

Measles is caused by the measles virus, which infects the respiratory tract and quickly spreads throughout the body.

Risk Factors

• Lack of vaccination – The biggest risk factor for contracting measles.
• Weakened immune system – Chronic illnesses or conditions that lower immunity increase susceptibility.
• Malnutrition – Especially vitamin A deficiency, which makes symptoms more severe.
• Travel to high-risk areas – Measles is more common in countries with low vaccination rates.
• Outbreaks in unvaccinated communities – A single case can quickly lead to an epidemic.
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How to Prevent Measles

1. Measles Vaccine (MMR – Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

The MMR vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles. It is:

• Given in two doses – the first at 12–15 months and the second at 4–6 years old.
• 95–99% effective in preventing measles.
• Lifesaving, preventing complications like pneumonia, brain damage, and death.

2. Importance of Childhood Immunization and Herd Immunity

Vaccination protects individuals and reduces community transmission. When 95% of a population is vaccinated, herd immunity prevents outbreaks, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated (e.g., newborns, immunocompromised individuals).

3. Public Health Measures

• Quarantine – Infected individuals should stay home for at least 4 days after the rash appears.
• Good hygiene practices – Washing hands, covering sneezes, and avoiding contact with infected individuals.
• Boosting immunity – Proper nutrition, including vitamin A supplementation, helps prevent severe illness.
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Treatment for Measles

There is no specific antiviral cure for measles, but supportive treatments can relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Home and Medical Treatments

• Hydration – Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Fever reducers – Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen can help manage fever and body aches.
• Vitamin A supplements – Recommended by the WHO, especially for malnourished children, as it reduces the severity of symptoms.
• Rest and comfort measures – Keep the patient in a dimly lit, quiet room to ease discomfort.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Immediate medical care is needed if the patient:

• Has difficulty breathing or persistent high fever.
• Develops signs of pneumonia (rapid breathing, chest pain).
• Shows neurological symptoms (seizures, confusion, severe headache).
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Common Myths and Misconceptions About Measles

1. "Measles is harmless"

• Fact: Measles can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.

2. "The vaccine is dangerous"

• Fact: The MMR vaccine is scientifically proven to be safe and effective. Studies have debunked myths linking it to autism.

3. "Natural infection is better than vaccination"

• Fact: While surviving measles provides immunity, it comes with high risks of severe illness, hospitalization, or death. The vaccine is a safer option.
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Measles remains a major health threat, especially among unvaccinated individuals. Understanding measles symptoms, prevention, and treatment is essential in stopping its spread.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Measles is highly contagious and spreads through airborne droplets.
✅ Symptoms include fever, cough, rash, and Koplik’s spots.
✅ The MMR vaccine is the most effective prevention method.
✅ Treatment focuses on symptom relief, hydration, and vitamin A supplementation.
✅ Vaccination is crucial to prevent outbreaks and protect vulnerable individuals.

Protect yourself and your loved ones—get vaccinated and spread awareness. For more information, visit WHO or CDC for the latest health guidelines.