Measles, also known as rubella, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a virus. It is spread through contact and often a person will not know they have been exposed until symptoms appear. Due to the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) this disease is uncommon in the United States but continue to be a serious threat worldwide.
Within 7 to 14 days after a person is infected symptoms begin to appear. These may include: a blotchy rash that appears on the forehead first then spreads to the entire body, watery eyes, fever, runny nose, sore throat and cough.
Antibiotics will not help cure measles as it is a viral infection. The best thing to do is to treat the discomfort of the symptoms. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be given for pain and fever. Aspirin should never be given due to the possibility of developing Reye’s Syndrome which can be fatal in children. A cool bath may help relieve the itchiness and a mild lotion may be applied to the rash.
In the United States the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine has been proven to reduce the number of cases by 99 percent. There is also a combination vaccine that covers chicken pox and is known as the MMRV vaccine. A child’s pediatrician will determine which vaccine is best for each individual child. The vaccine is usually given in two doses, once at 12 to 15 months and the other at 4 to 6 years of age.
Many school systems in the United States require a child to provide proof of immunization before they are allowed to enroll. If a child travels outside the U.S. they should be immunized since not all countries require it and measles is still a widespread threat in many foreign countries.
Sat, Jul 17, 2010
Health