Measles is a particularly contagious viral infection that carries the risk of serious complications, especially in infants and unvaccinated individuals. Because it can be prevented by vaccination, the presence of an outbreak warrants very early recognition for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
What Is Measles?
Measles, or rubeola, is a viral disease in which the virus first infects the respiratory tract and subsequently spreads throughout the body. The infection is largely spread through respiratory droplets sent into the air when an infected person sneezes or coughs. Comprising such a highly contagious nature, the virus can survive in the air for two hours.
Symptoms of Measles in the Early Stages
The failing symptoms of measles are mostly exper
ienced in a sequence over a period of two to three weeks after exposure. Different stages are as follows:
1. Incubation Period (7-14 days)
During this phase, there are usually no symptoms.
The virus is multiplying silently in the body.
2. Prodrome (Early Symptoms, Days 1-4)
High fever (usually about 104°F or over);
- Cough;
- Runny nose;
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis);
- Koplik’s spots: Small, white spots in the cheeks appearing 2-3 days prior to the skin rash.
3. Measles Rash (From Day 3 to Day 5 of Illness)
A monochrome, or red to reddish-brown mottled rash comes into view.
It originates on the hairline and descends to the face, then invades the neck, trunk, and limbs.
In total, it’s going to last for anywhere between 5 and 6 days, with fading occurring in the same sequence of events as occurred with the appearance.
Attacks coincide with a rise in fever.
Complications of Measles
While most individuals recover fully, measles can cause serious complications such as:
- Ear infections
- Diarrhea
- Pneumonia
- Encephalitis (swelling of the brain)
- Blindness
- Death (especially in children under 5 and adults over 20)
Prevention is the best cure.
The MMR vaccine against measles, and mumps, and rubella is a highly effective measure to prevent measles. Two doses give possibly a protection rate of about 97 percent. The vaccination serves to protect not only the individual but also helps prevent outbreaks through herd immunity.
Conclusion
Recognizing the early signs of measles permits a timely diagnosis that minimizes complications and diminishes spread. If you or your child are unvaccinated, get medical advice immediately following exposure to measles. Vaccination will always be the number one recommendation.
Measles Symptoms FAQs
Q. 1: How soon after exposure do measles symptoms appear?
A: Symptoms usually begin 10-12 days after exposure. The rash typically appears 14 days after exposure.
Q. 2: What is the most distinctive symptom of measles?
A: Most visible is the rash, but Koplik’s spots (small white spots inside the mouth) are an important diagnostic clue that appear prior to the rash.
Q. 3: Can someone be contagious before the symptoms show?
A: Yes. The individual is contagious starting 4 days before rash onset to 4 days afterward.
Q.4: How do you diagnose measles?
A: Diagnosis is mostly clinical based on symptoms and rash appearance. It can be verified by blood tests or by isolating the virus in respiratory specimens.
Q. 5: What should I do if I suspect someone has measles?
A: Call a healthcare provider as soon as possible and stay away from public places to prevent transmission of the virus. You should inform the provider before going in, so they can take precautions.
Q.6: Is there any treatment for measles symptoms?
A: There is no specific antiviral treatment, and management therefore is almost entirely symptom-relief, hydration, and complication-oriented. Vitamin A supplements are administered commonly to children.
