Measles sometimes known as rubeola is a highly contagious disease. Measles can cause cold-like symptoms and a deadly rash, but can also lead to more extreme and serious complications. It is possible to catch measles at any age and the most effective way of preventing measles is the MMR vaccine.
Measles sometimes known as rubeola is a highly contagious disease. Measles can cause cold-like symptoms and a deadly rash, but can also lead to more extreme and serious complications. It is possible to catch measles at any age and the most effective way of preventing measles is the MMR vaccine.
How is measles spread?
The measles virus is contained in the millions of tiny droplets that come through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is highly infectious and can spread quickly from room to room even if a person is in isolation.
Once a person is infected with measles there is an incubation period of 1-2 weeks before the symptoms appear. Patients with measles are infectious for up to four days before the rash appears and for five days afterwards.
What are the symptoms of measles?
- cold-like symptoms
- red swollen eyes and sensitivity to light
- a mild to severe temperature
- tiny greyish-white spots called Koplik's spots inside the mouth
- tiredness, irritability and a general lack of energy
- poor appetite
- a hacking cough
- red-brown spotty rash
- Symptoms generally last for up to 14 days
What does the measles rash look like?
At first, small red spots will appear, which then double in size before clotting together. The rash usually begins around the ears and spreads down the body over the course of a few days.
How is measles diagnosed?
Your doctor will be able to diagnose measles from symptoms however a blood or saliva test may be required to confirm the diagnosis.
Measles is a notifiable disease so Doctors have a duty to notify the HSE Public health Department of all suspected cases of measles.
How is measles treated?
Unfortunately, there are no specific medicines to treat measles. Anyone who contracts this disease is advised to rest, treating the symptoms until your immune system fights off the virus. It usually takes 7-10 days.
Paracetamol can help relieve fever, aches and pains, dimming the lights can help with sore swollen eyes and it is advised to drink plenty of fluids to keep hydrated while your body fights off the infection.
Are there complications with measles?
The answer is simple, yes.
Common complications include diarrhoea, vomiting, conjunctivitis and laryngitis.
Less common complications of measles are meningitis, pneumonia, liver infection, inflammation of the brain, thrombocytopenia, bronchitis and croup.
How can I protect my child from measles?
The most effective way of protecting your child from measles is with an MMR vaccine. MMR stands for measles, mumps and rubella and the vaccine prevents measles, mumps and rubella by making the body produce antibodies that will fight off the viruses.
The MMR vaccine is part of the free Immunisation schedule and is given to babies at 12 months old. A booster is then given at the age of 4-5 in school.
Written by Kellie Kearney staff writer at FFHQ who also blogs at www.mylittlebabog.com.
