Essential Information About Measles: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Learn essential facts about measles, including how it spreads, symptoms to watch for, and effective prevention strategies. Vaccination remains the most reliable way to protect against this highly contagious disease. Early diagnosis and supportive care can help manage symptoms and reduce complications.
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Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases caused by the rubeola virus. Once infected, a person's immunity decreases rapidly, but typically, immunity persists for life after recovery. It's more common among children, but vaccination can effectively prevent the disease. Though rare, severe cases can be fatal, though death rates have significantly declined due to vaccination efforts.
The illness usually presents with high fever, red rashes, and body patches accompanied by intense discomfort. Patients should isolate themselves and seek medical advice promptly. Initial symptoms include fever, followed by characteristic rashes and Koplik spots.
The paramyxovirus virus causes measles, which spreads mainly through close contact. Transmission occurs when an infected person sneezes or coughs, dispersing droplets into the air. Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face can also lead to infection.
Symptoms appear after around one or two weeks, starting with cough, sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and fever. Subsequently, rashes and Koplik spots develop. The contagious period lasts for the first four days; symptoms then subside as recovery begins, with skin marks fading over time.
Since measles is viral, no specific cure exists. Supportive treatments such as fever reducers like ibuprofen help manage symptoms. Vitamin A supplements may aid recovery if prescribed by a doctor. Rest in a dimly lit room can promote faster healing.
