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Measles
(rubeola, hard measles, red measles)
What is measles?
Measles is an acute, highly contagious viral disease capable of producing
epidemics. Measles is more common in winter and spring.
Who gets measles?
Although measles is usually considered a childhood disease, it can be
contracted at any age. Generally, preschool children, adolescents, young
adults and inadequately immunized individuals comprise the majority of
measles cases in the United States.
How is measles spread?
Measles is spread by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions
of infected people or, less frequently, by airborne transmission. Measles
is one of the most readily transmitted communicable diseases.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Measles symptoms generally appear in two stages. In the first stage,
the individual may have a runny nose, cough and a slight fever. The eyes
may become reddened and sensitive to light while the fever consistently
rises each day. The second stage begins on the third to seventh day and
consists of a temperature of 103-105°F, and a red blotchy rash lasting
four to seven days. The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads
over the entire body. Koplik spots (little white spots) may also appear
on the gums and inside of the cheeks.
How soon do symptoms appear?
Symptoms usually appear in 10-12 days, although they may occur as early
as eight or as late as 13 days after exposure.
When and for how long is a person able to spread measles?
An individual is able to transmit measles from five days prior to and
five days after rash onset.
Does past infection make a person immune?
Yes. Permanent immunity is acquired after contracting the disease.
What is the treatment for measles?
There is no specific treatment for measles.
What are the complications associated with measles?
Pneumonia occurs in up to 6 percent of reported cases and accounts for
60 percent of deaths attributed to measles. Encephalitis (inflammation
of the brain) may also occur. Other complications include middle ear infection
and convulsions. Measles is more severe in infants and adults.
How can measles be prevented?
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1957, who does not have a history
of physician-diagnosed measles or serologic confirmation of measles immunity,
should receive two doses of MMR vaccine for maximum protection. The first
dose should be given at 12-15 months of age. The second dose should be
given at four to six years of age (school entry) at the same time as the
DTP and polio booster doses. MMR vaccine is recommended for all measles
vaccine doses to provide increased protection against all three vaccine-preventable
diseases: measles, mumps and rubella. Measles immunization is required
of all children enrolled in schools and prekindergarten programs. Since
August 1, 1990, college students have also been required to demonstrate
immunity against measles.
Source: NY State Department of Health
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