First of all, measles is an acute, exanthematous respiratory infectious disease caused by the spread of a virus, which is extremely contagious. Measles can occur in all seasons, with high rates in winter and spring, and anyone can get measles, but it is most common in children.
The source of the disease
Humans are the only natural reservoir of the measles virus, and measles patients are the only source of infection.
How the disease is transmitted
Spread mainly through airborne droplets, the population is generally susceptible when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes, and can also be transmitted through direct contact with infected secretions.
Main signs and symptoms
Measles symptoms usually begin within 10 to 14 days of exposure. The most noticeable symptom is the appearance of a pronounced rash, and the early symptoms usually last 4-7 days. These include: runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots on the inside of the cheeks.
The rash begins about 7-18 days after exposure to the virus and usually appears on the face and upper neck. The rash spreads in about 3 days and eventually spreads to the hands and feet. The rash usually lasts 5-6 days before it subsides.
Associated complications
Most measles deaths are due to blindness, encephalitis (an infection that causes brain swelling and potential brain damage), severe diarrhea and related dehydration, ear infections, and severe breathing problems including pneumonia.
If a woman is infected with measles during pregnancy, it can be dangerous for the mother and can lead to premature birth of the baby as well as low birth weight.
Susceptible population
The population is generally susceptible to the measles virus. All people who are not immune (unvaccinated or vaccinated but do not develop immunity) can be infected. Unvaccinated young children and pregnant women are at highest risk of serious measles complications, with overt infection rates of more than 90% after exposure to the measles virus.
Measles is still common, especially in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The vast majority of measles deaths occur in countries with low per capita incomes or weak health infrastructure that makes it difficult to immunize all children.
Disease prevention
1. The relevant means of preventing the onset of measles are still mainly vaccination. Community-wide vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. All parents should vaccinate their children against measles. The measles vaccine is safe and effective and is part of the national immunization programme.
2. Try not to go to crowded public places with poor air circulation, especially pay attention to strengthening the protection of infants and young children under the age of 8 months who have not yet reached the age of vaccination, and if you have to go, you must do a good job of personal protection, such as wearing masks, etc., to reduce the chance of measles infection.
3. The key to preventing measles is to strengthen the management of patients, adhere to early detection, early diagnosis, early isolation, early treatment, and minimize contact with patients and their families.
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