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Measles, once considered nearly eliminated in many parts of the world due to widespread vaccination, still remains a serious threat due to declining vaccination coverage. Highly contagious and capable of causing serious complications like pneumonia, ear infections, etc. Diarrhea, the virus can spread rapidly in communities where people are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated.
In the United States, South Carolina is now experiencing a widespread outbreak of measles. State health officials confirmed 15 new cases from Tuesday to Friday, bringing the total in the northwestern part of the state to 126. According to the state health department, to contain the virus, at least 303 people who came in contact have been isolated, while 13 infected patients are in isolation. (Also read: Research scientists share ‘the only weight loss method’ that really works: It’s not diet or exercise ,
Measles: Risks and Prevention
in 2022 In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Kirti Sabnis, infectious disease specialist at Fortis Hospital in Kalyan and Mulund, and Dr Asmita Mahajan, consultant neonatologist and pediatrician at SL Raheja Hospital in Mahim, explained the dangers of measles. “Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can last for up to ten days. During this period, the patient may suffer complications such as ear infections, diarrhoea, pneumonia, fever and rashes,” he said.
Both doctors stressed the importance of vaccination. “The MR (measles-rubella) vaccine, given free under the government’s universal immunization programme, is highly effective. Children who are vaccinated are unlikely to contract the disease. To eliminate measles in India, the majority of children in all areas must be vaccinated,” he said.
How measles spreads: know the symptoms
“Measles originates in the nose and throat of infected individuals and is highly contagious. The virus spreads through droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. These droplets can remain in the air for up to an hour, making isolation of patients important,” the doctors said.
“Measles often starts like the flu, with high fever, fatigue, severe cough, red or bloody eyes and runny nose. The rash usually starts on the head and spreads to other parts of the body. Other symptoms may include a sore throat, white patches in the mouth, muscle pain, and sensitivity to light,” Dr. Sabnis and Dr. Mahajan said.
Measles prevention and treatment
Doctors highlighted that anyone who has not been vaccinated is at risk. “Before vaccines were developed, almost everyone was infected with measles. Vaccinated or previously infected people are usually immune. However, new variants of the virus could put everyone at risk,” he said.
There is no cure for measles, and recovery usually takes 10-14 days. Doctors recommend the following supportive care:
- Pain relief with prescribed medicines like paracetamol for fever and body ache (consult a doctor for children under five years of age or pregnant patients)
- Get enough rest to help your body recover
- Adequate hydration and regular salt water gargles
- Avoid exposure to bright light if it causes discomfort
- Vitamin A supplements to reduce complications like diarrhea and pneumonia
- IV antibiotics if secondary bacterial infection develops
- Adjunctive treatments such as nebulization as needed
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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