So, what do you think about the highly contagious virus Measles? How highly does this virus infect people through the nose and throat? What is the infection process of measles? How do you break the chain of infection for measles?
Let’s take a journey of Measles. We’ve covered you. This comprehensive article will cover from basics to each important term related to the highly contagious virus Measles.
History of Measles?
Measles is an acute, viral, infectious disease. People have been talking about measles since the 7th century. A Persian doctor named Rhazes said in the 10th century that measles was scarier than smallpox. In 1846, a man named Peter Panum found out that after you get measles, you can’t get it again for the rest of your life. He also figured out how long it takes for measles symptoms to show up after you catch the disease.
Before we had a measles vaccine, almost every kid got the measles. By the time they turned 15, over 90% of people were immune to measles because they had already had it.
Source: cdc.gov
What is Measles infection?
Measles is a super catchy sickness caused by a virus. It’s a kind of infection that affects the breathing system and is usually seen in little kids. It spreads in several ways like touching someone who has it, coming into contact with the throat mucus of a sick person, or through coughs and sneezes.
This virus is super catchy and lives in the nose and throat goo of a sick person. It can spread to others when they cough or sneeze. If other people breathe in the germy air or touch something the sick person touched, and then touch their own eyes, noses, or mouths, they can catch the virus too.
Also read: Psyllium Husk – 4 Amazing Psyllium Husk Health Benefits
Who can get infected with Measles?
Anyone who isn’t immune (meaning they didn’t get the vaccine or they got it but it didn’t work) can catch this virus. Young kids who didn’t get their shots and pregnant people are the ones who can get sick from measles.
Source: WHO
What are the 5 symptoms of measles?
The symptoms of measles typically appear about 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Here are five common symptoms of measles.
1. Fever: Measles often begins with a high fever, which can spike up to 104°F (40°C) or even higher. This fever usually develops a few days before other symptoms become apparent.
2. Rash: One of the characteristic signs of measles is a red, blotchy rash that typically starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. The rash usually develops a few days after the onset of fever. The individual may also notice small, raised bumps on the surface of the rash.
3. Cough: Measles can cause a persistent cough, which is often accompanied by other respiratory symptoms such as a runny nose and sneezing. The cough may contribute to the spread of the virus, as the measles virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through respiratory droplets.
4. Conjunctivitis (Red Eyes): Measles can cause inflammation of the eyes, leading to redness and irritation. This condition, known as conjunctivitis, often occurs in conjunction with other symptoms and contributes to the overall discomfort experienced by individuals with measles.
5. Koplik’s Spots: Before the rash appears, some individuals with measles may develop small, white spots with a bluish-white center on the inside of the cheeks. These spots, known as Koplik’s spots, are considered a diagnostic indicator of measles and can help differentiate it from other viral rashes.
It is important to notice that measles can cause some serious problems like pneumonia, and brain swelling, and it can even kill you. The best way to keep from getting sick with measles or giving it to others is to get vaccinated. The shot is safe and it helps your body beat the virus.
Source: WHO
What is the infection process of measles?
Measles is one of the world’s most contagious diseases, spread by contact with infected nasal or throat secretions (coughing or sneezing) or breathing the air that was breathed by someone with measles. The virus remains active and contagious in the air or on infected surfaces for up to two hours.
Source: WHO
How to break the chain of infection of measles?
To stop germs from spreading, you can do several things. Wash your hands often, keep your vaccinations current (including your flu shot), cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and stay home if you’re sick. Follow isolation rules if they apply, use safety gear correctly, keep your surroundings clean, and make sure medical tools are sterilized. Practice safe methods when getting injections, and use antibiotics responsibly to avoid making bacteria resistant to them.
Apart from this, a guideline from WHO is:
Kids need two shots of the vaccine to be protected. The first shot is typically given when they are 9 months old in places where measles is common, and between 12 to 15 months old in other places. A second shot is usually given when they are between 15 to 18 months old.
How long does it take for measles to clear up?
The duration of measles symptoms can vary, but the illness typically follows a specific timeline. Here is a general overview of how long it takes for measles to clear up:
1. Incubation Period: The incubation period for measles, which is the time between exposure to the virus and the onset of symptoms, is usually around 10 to 14 days. During this period, individuals may not show any signs of illness.
2. Prodromal Phase: The prodromal phase is the initial stage when symptoms begin to appear. It often starts with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. This phase lasts for about 2 to 4 days.
3. Rash Development: After the prodromal phase, the characteristic measles rash begins to appear. The rash typically starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. The rash usually lasts for about 5 to 6 days.
4. Total Duration: In total, the entire course of measles, from the onset of symptoms to the resolution of the rash, generally lasts about 7 to 10 days. However, individuals may continue to feel fatigued and weak for a longer period, and it can take some time for the immune system to fully recover.
What is the Vertical Transmission of Measles?
Did you know that a mom can pass measles to her baby? Yeah, it’s called vertical transmission. This means the sickness can move from a mom to her baby right before and after the baby is born. It can happen through the placenta, in breast milk, or by touching the baby during or after birth. So, if a mom has the measles virus, it’s really important to talk to a doctor. It can be really bad for the baby that’s still growing.
