>> General Info about Measles
Henry Koplik, in 1856,was the one who discovered the features of Measles. The name "measles" comes from the Middle English "maselen" meaning "many little spots" referring to the rash that is characteristic feature of measles. Rubeola refers to the red color of the rash. Measles is common in childhood, with more than 90% of infants and children infected by 12 years of age. Measles is among the most readily transmitted of all infectious diseases. The average time between exposure to the measles virus and the development of symptoms is from 10 to 14 days.
>> What are the causes of Measles ?
Measles is due to a virus that is easily spread, known as the 'paramyxo' virus. Measles can also be passed by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected persons or objects contaminated with the measles virus.
>>What are the symptoms of Measles?
Typical measles begins with fever, runny nose , cough, and red eyes. The very characteristic spots within the mouth (called Koplik's spots) appear 2 to 4 days later, are found on the inside of the cheeks opposite the 1st and 2nd upper molars, they look like little grains of white sand surrounded by a red ring. Soreness of throat occurs along with inflammation of the airways. The rash appears 3 to 5 days after the onset of symptoms. The rash progresses from the head downward. It begins below the ears and on the side of the neck as small irregular bumps that soon increase in size and spread rapidly (within 1-2 days) to the trunk and limbs as they begin to fade on the face. Bleeding spots and bruises can occur with very severe rashes. Patient can have very high fever up to 104° F. The eyes are very sensitive to light (photophobia).
>>How can we diagnose Measles ?
Diagnosis is carried out on the basis of the symptoms, a definitive diagnosis of measles can be made only by seeing Koplik’s spots, the tiny white spots most often seen on the inside of the cheeks.
>>How can Measles be treated ?
The child is isolated and excluded from school for about 10 days. Antibiotics are given only if there is a bacterial infection. The eyes may be very sensitive to light and have an irritating discharge. Wash the eyes by wiping them with a clean, wet washcloth but avoid rubbing them. Keep lights dim or the room darkened. Sunglasses may also help. Increase fluids to 12-16 glasses of liquid (8 ounces or 250 ml per glass) a day during the fever. You should drink enough fluids to cause urination every 2 hours. Eat a well balanced diet. To prevent itching of rashes a calamine lotion maybe applied. Antihistamines may also help.
>>How can measles be prevented?
The way to prevent measles is by measles immunization: The standard MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine is given in two dosages. The first dose should be at 12-15 months of age. The second vaccination should be at 4-6 years of age.
