Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the measles virus, which spreads easily through the air via coughs and sneezes from infected individuals or by contact with contaminated surfaces
. It primarily affects the respiratory tract and is characterized by symptoms that typically begin 10 to 14 days after exposure.
Symptoms of Measles
- Initial symptoms include high fever (often above 104°F or 40°C), dry cough, runny nose, sore throat, and red, inflamed eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Small white spots with bluish-white centers, called Koplik's spots, appear inside the mouth a few days after initial symptoms
- A distinctive red, flat rash usually starts on the face and then spreads downward over the body, lasting about 7 days
- The rash may be accompanied by a sharp rise in fever and can cause skin peeling as it fades
Transmission and Contagiousness
Measles is extremely contagious, with about 90% of non-immune people exposed to the virus becoming infected
. A person with measles can spread the virus from about four days before the rash appears to four days after the rash starts
Complications
While many recover without long-term issues, measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, seizures, encephalitis (brain inflammation), hearing loss, and blindness. It can also cause immunosuppression, increasing vulnerability to other infections
Prevention and Treatment
Measles is preventable through vaccination. There is no specific antiviral treatment; care is supportive, including fever management, hydration, and vitamin A supplementation in children under five
. Antibiotics may be used if secondary bacterial infections occur. In summary, measles is a serious, highly contagious viral illness marked by fever, cough, conjunctivitis, Koplik spots, and a spreading rash, preventable by vaccine and requiring supportive care during infection
