What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that primarily affects children but can occur at any age. It typically causes fever, cough, and a characteristic rash and can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
Quick Facts
- Condition type: Viral infection
- Common age group: Children (can affect adolescents and adults)
- Treatable: Supportive care (no specific antiviral cure)
- Emergency: Sometimes (urgent care recommended for severe symptoms or complications)
Symptoms of Measles
Symptoms usually develop in stages and may include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Small white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
- Red, blotchy rash that often starts on the face and spreads downward
- Fatigue or weakness
Complications can include pneumonia, dehydration, ear infections, and, in rare cases, neurological involvement.
Causes of Measles
Measles is caused by the measles virus, which spreads through:
- Airborne respiratory droplets
- Direct contact with an infected person
- Contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the face
The virus can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Symptoms of Measles
- Lack of prior immunity (not previously vaccinated or exposed)
- Close contact with infected individuals
- Travel to areas with ongoing outbreaks
- Weakened immune system
- Pregnancy
Treatment & Management Options
There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Management focuses on supportive care, which may include:
- Medical evaluation and monitoring
- Fever management and hydration
- Treatment of complications, such as bacterial infections if they occur
- Isolation precautions to reduce spread
Hospital care may be required for severe cases or high-risk patients.
