Measles - what you need to know about this highly infectious disease

Introduction: Understanding Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that affects people of all ages, particularly children. Despite being preventable through vaccination, it continues to cause illness and death globally. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), measles caused more than 140,000 deaths in 2018, the majority of them among children under the age of five.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about measles—its symptoms, causes, complications, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.

 

What Is Measles?

Measles, also known as rubella, is a viral infection caused by the measles virus, a member of the Paramyxoviridae family. The transmission of the virus occurs as a result of the release of droplets, which are expelled as an infected individual coughs or sneezes.

Key Facts:

• Infectious period: 4 days before and after rash appears
• Transmission: Airborne or direct contact with infected mucus or saliva
• At-risk groups: Unvaccinated individuals, young children, immunocompromised people

 

Symptoms of Measles

Measles symptoms typically appear 10–14 days after exposure and include:

• High fever (often above 104°F or 40°C)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• Koplik spots (tiny white spots inside the mouth)
• Red, blotchy skin rash that starts on the face and spreads

The rash is one of the most recognizable symptoms and usually lasts for 5–6 days.

Causes and Risk Factors

The measles virus is incredibly contagious. In fact, if one person has measles, up to 90% of close contacts who are not immune will become infected.

Common Risk Factors:

• Lack of vaccination
• Travel to regions with outbreaks
• Close contact with infected individuals
• Weakened immune system

Unvaccinated populations or communities with low immunization rates are at the highest risk of outbreaks.

 How Measles Spreads

Measles spreads primarily through:

• Coughing and sneezing
• Breathing contaminated air
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the nose, mouth, or eyes

The virus can live on surfaces or remain airborne for up to two hours, making it one of the most infectious diseases known.

 

Complications from Measles

While many people recover fully, measles can lead to serious health complications, especially in children under five and adults over 20.

Possible Complications:

• Ear infections
• Pneumonia
• Diarrhea
• Encephalitis (brain inflammation)
• Blindness
• Death

In rare cases, measles can cause subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a fatal brain disorder that appears years after infection.

 

Diagnosis and Testing

Doctors typically diagnose measles based on symptoms and visual examination of the rash. Laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis may include the following:

Blood tests (to detect measles-specific IgM antibodies)

• Throat swabs
• Urine tests

Early diagnosis is critical to prevent further spread, especially during outbreaks.

 
Treatment and Management

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Supportive care helps relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Recommended Care Includes:

• Fever management: Using acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Hydration: Drinking fluids to prevent dehydration
• Vitamin A supplements: Especially in children, to reduce severity
• Monitoring for complications

Hospitalization may be required for severe cases.

 

Prevention: The Importance of Vaccination

The best way to prevent measles is vaccination. MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is effective, safe, and is normally administered in two doses.

Vaccination Schedule (CDC Guidelines):

• First dose: 12–15 months of age
• Second dose: 4–6 years of age

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles.

 

Global Efforts to Eliminate Measles

International organizations like the WHO and UNICEF continue to work toward eliminating measles through mass vaccination campaigns. However, challenges such as misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, and healthcare access gaps remain.

Notable Initiatives:

• Measles & Rubella Initiative (M&RI)
• Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance
• Global Immunization Vision and Strategy (GIVS)

Despite global progress, outbreaks still occur in both developing and developed countries due to declining vaccination coverage.

 

Measles in the News: Recent Outbreaks

Measles outbreaks have occurred in several countries in recent years, often tied to low vaccination rates. For example:

• The United States saw over 1,200 cases in 2019—the highest since 1992.
• Countries like India, the Philippines, and Madagascar continue to experience major outbreaks.

Tracking measles cases and promoting vaccination are key to preventing future epidemics.

 

Myths and Misinformation

Myth: The MMR vaccine causes autism.

Fact: Extensive research, including studies by the CDC and WHO, confirms that the MMR vaccine does not cause autism.

Myth: Natural immunity is better than vaccination.

Fact: Measles can cause severe complications, even death. Vaccination offers safe and effective immunity without risking infection.

 

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• You or your child develops a high fever and rash
• You've been exposed to measles and are unvaccinated
• You’re planning international travel and aren’t sure about your vaccination status

Early diagnosis and isolation are key to protecting others from infection.

 

Conclusion: Measles Is Preventable

Measles is a dangerous but entirely preventable disease. With proper vaccination, good public awareness, and global cooperation, we can reduce its spread and save lives.

Protect yourself, your family, and your community—get vaccinated and stay informed.

 

External Resources for Further Reading

• World Health Organization – Measles
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Measles
• UNICEF – Immunization
• Gavi – Measles Vaccination