Measles is more than just a childhood rash it’s a highly infectious viral disease that continues to pose a threat to global public health, despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine. Caused by the measles virus, this illness spreads rapidly from person to person, especially in areas with low vaccination coverage. While many associate measles with the characteristic red skin rash, it is much more than a skin condition.
Historically, measles was responsible for widespread outbreaks, causing significant illness and death among children worldwide. With the advent of the measles vaccine in the 1960s, global cases dropped dramatically, leading many to believe the disease had been nearly eradicated. However, recent years have seen a resurgence of measles in various parts of the world, including countries where it was previously under control.
What is Measles?
Measles, also known as rubeola, is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system. It is caused by the measles virus, a member of the paramyxovirus family. The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles is known for its distinctive red, blotchy rash, which appears a few days after the onset of other symptoms. This infection is one of the leading causes of vaccine-preventable deaths worldwide.
How does Measles Spread?
Measles spreads easily from person to person, primarily through direct contact with an infected person’s saliva or nasal secretions. The virus can also be transmitted when an infected individual coughs or sneezes, releasing tiny droplets into the air. These droplets can remain in the air or on surfaces for several hours, allowing the virus to spread even when the infected person is no longer present.
The measles virus is extremely contagious, with around 90% of unvaccinated people who are exposed to the virus becoming infected. It is most contagious during the period from four days before the rash appears to four days after it begins.
Symptoms of Measles
The symptoms of measles generally appear around 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. The first signs of the infection include fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and conjunctivitis (red, inflamed eyes). These symptoms often resemble a common cold or other respiratory infections, which can make it difficult to diagnose measles in its early stages.
A few days after the onset of these initial symptoms, a distinctive red, blotchy rash appears, usually starting at the hairline or behind the ears and then spreading to the face, neck, and rest of the body. The rash can last for several days and is often accompanied by intense itching. In addition to the rash, small white spots may appear inside the mouth, known as Koplik spots, which are a key indicator of measles.
Complications of Measles
While measles may seem like a routine childhood illness, it can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Common complications of measles include :-
-
Ear infections :- Measles can cause ear infections, which may lead to hearing loss if left untreated.
-
Pneumonia :- A bacterial or viral infection in the lungs, which is one of the most common complications of measles.
-
Diarrhea :- Many children with measles experience severe diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration.
-
Encephalitis :- This is a rare but severe complication where the brain becomes inflamed. It can cause seizures, permanent brain damage, or even death.
-
Pregnancy-related complications :- If a pregnant woman contracts measles, it can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, or miscarriage.
The risk of these complications is why it is critical to vaccinate children and adults against measles.
How to Prevent Measles?
The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provides effective protection against the virus. The MMR vaccine is typically given to children in two doses :-
-
The first dose is given at age 12 to 15 months.
-
The second dose is given at age 4 to 6 years.
The MMR vaccine is highly effective, with more than 90% of individuals receiving both doses developing immunity to measles. If you are unsure whether you or your child has been vaccinated, speak with a healthcare provider about catching up on the vaccine schedule.
For individuals who have not been vaccinated and are exposed to the measles virus, there is an option for post exposure prevention. If given within 72 hours of exposure, the MMR vaccine may help prevent the infection. In some cases, a dose of immune globulin (a substance containing antibodies) can be given within 6 days of exposure to reduce the severity of symptoms.
Measles and Herd Immunity
Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of the population is immune to a disease, either through vaccination or previous infection. When enough people are vaccinated against measles, the spread of the virus is reduced, and those who cannot be vaccinated such as infants, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems are also protected because the virus cannot spread easily within the community.
Achieving herd immunity is essential for preventing outbreaks. This is why vaccination rates need to remain high, especially in regions where measles is still common. If vaccination rates drop, the risk of outbreaks increases significantly.
Measles Outbreaks
Despite the availability of an effective vaccine, measles outbreaks still occur around the world. These outbreaks are most commonly seen in communities where vaccination rates are low, often due to vaccine hesitancy or access issues. In some regions, measles has become a significant public health threat due to misinformation about vaccines or lack of access to healthcare services.
The global decline in measles cases since the introduction of the vaccine has been a major success. However, outbreaks in recent years have reminded us that measles remains a dangerous and highly contagious disease, and vaccination is the best way to protect ourselves and others.
Conclusion
Measles is a serious viral infection that can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. Although it is largely preventable with the MMR vaccine, the disease continues to pose a risk in areas with low vaccination rates. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect individuals and communities from measles
