Understanding Measles: Prevention and Impact on Infants and Children
- Mya Cruz
- Apr 14
- 3 min read
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is characterized by high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash that spreads across the body. Despite being preventable, measles remains a significant health concern, especially for infants and children.
Symptoms of Measles
Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. The initial symptoms include:
High fever (may spike to more than 104°F)
Dry cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
Tiny white spots (Koplik spots) inside the mouth
Rash: Begins as flat red spots on the face at the hairline and spreads downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.
Small, raised bumps may also appear on top of the flat red spots
Duration of Measles Rash
The measles rash typically lasts for about 5 to 6 days. It begins to improve within one to two days after reaching its peak, gradually fading into light brown pigmentation.
Prevention Measures
The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective, providing up to 97% protection after two doses. Here are key prevention measures:
Vaccination: Ensure that children receive the MMR vaccine according to the recommended schedule. The first dose is typically given between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between 4 and 6 years.
Hygiene Practices: Maintain proper hygiene, including regular handwashing and respiratory etiquette, such as covering coughs and sneezes.
Isolation: Quickly identify and isolate individuals with suspected measles to prevent the spread of the virus
Community Immunization: Promote widespread vaccination within the community to achieve herd immunity, reducing the overall risk of outbreaks.
Impact on Infants and Children
Measles can be particularly dangerous for infants and young children. Here are some of the potential impacts:
Severe Complications: Infants and young children are at higher risk for severe complications, such as pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and even death. Pneumonia is the most common cause of death from measles in young children.
Hospitalization: About 1 in 5 unvaccinated individuals who contract measles require hospitalization.
Long-term Effects: Encephalitis can lead to long-term consequences, including deafness and intellectual disabilities.
Increased Vulnerability: Children under five years of age, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems are more likely to suffer from severe complications.
What to do if you are pregnant and suspect you have measles:
Contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Your doctor may order tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine if you are immune to measles.
Treatment for measles in pregnant women involves supportive therapy, as there are no antiviral medications available to treat the infection.
Pregnant women with suspected or known measles should be isolated promptly in an airborne infection isolation room, and a facemask should be placed on the patient if feasible.
How family and friends can help:
Most Important: Anyone in close contact with the pregnant person, including partners and other family members, should be vaccinated with the MMR vaccine.
Limit exposure to individuals who may be sick, especially those with symptoms of measles (fever, cough, runny nose, and rash).
Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, to prevent the spread of viruses.
Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces in the home.
Conclusion
Measles is a preventable yet potentially deadly disease, especially for infants and young children. Vaccination remains the cornerstone of prevention, complemented by good hygiene practices and prompt isolation of infected individuals. By ensuring that children receive the MMR vaccine and promoting community immunization, we can protect our youngest and most vulnerable members from the serious impacts of measles.
