Measles: Symptoms and Treatment

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It spreads easily when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes, and can lead to severe complications, serious illness, and even death. Measles can affect anyone, but it is most common in children. The virus infects the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a widespread skin rash. Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles and stop its transmission. The vaccine is safe and helps the body fight the virus.

Symptoms and Complications of Measles

Symptoms usually begin 10–14 days after exposure. The most noticeable symptom is a rash. Early symptoms typically last 4–7 days and include:

• Runny nose

• Cough

• Red and watery eyes

The rash usually appears 7–18 days after infection, starting on the face and upper neck, then spreading to the body over about 3 days. It lasts around 5–6 days before fading.

Complications may include:

• Diarrhea and vomiting leading to dehydration

• Ear infections (bacterial otitis media)

• Bronchitis or laryngitis

• Pneumonia, which can be life-threatening in immunocompromised individuals

• Encephalitis (brain inflammation), which may cause permanent brain damage

• Pregnancy complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, or fetal death

Severe complications are more common in children under 5 years and adults over 30, especially in malnourished individuals or those with vitamin A deficiency or weakened immune systems.

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone without immunity (unvaccinated or not fully immune) is at risk. Unvaccinated children and pregnant women are among the highest-risk groups.

Transmission

Measles spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing or by breathing in infected air. The virus can remain active in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. One infected person can transmit the virus to 9 out of 10 unvaccinated close contacts.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Management focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Treatment includes:

• Adequate hydration and nutrition

• Antipyretics and supportive care

• Antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections (e.g., pneumonia, ear infections)

• Vitamin A supplementation, which helps reduce eye damage and the risk of blindness