Measles

What is Measles?

Measles also called as rebeola is highly infectious and contagious but rare respiratory viral disease that occurs most often in the late winter and spring. It is caused by a virus known as Morbillivirus. It begins with a fever that lasts for a couple of days, followed by a cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (pink eye). A rash starts on the face and upper neck, spreads down the back and trunk, then extends to the arms and hands, as well as the legs and feet. After about five days, the rash fades the same order it appeared.

While your child is sick, it's important to make sure that he or she has plenty of fluids and rest, and to keep your child from spreading the infection to others. If you have any concerns about your child's condition, talk to your child's doctor.

What are the causes of Measles?

Measles is caused by the measles virus (which is classified scientifically as a paramyxovirus).

What are the symptoms of Measles?

The list of signs and symptoms mentioned in various sources for Measles includes those listed below. Note that Measles symptoms usually refers to various symptoms known to a patient, but the phrase Measles signs may refer to those signs only noticeable by a doctor:

Cold-like symptoms.
Cough.
Runny nose.
Sneezing.
Conjunctivitis.
Red eyes.
Watering eyes.
High fever.
Red spots in mouth.
Red spots inside cheeks.
Koplik spots - small spots in the mouth.
Mouth spots with white center and red ring.
Skin rash.
Skin rash beginning near ears and neck.
Skin rash spreading rapidly.
High temperature.
Hacking cough.
Light sensitivity.

What is the treatment done for Measles?

There is no cure for the measles. The best remedy is bed rest, and plenty to drink. Use paracetamol to control the fever.
Children with a hacking cough may get relief from a cough mixture or by sitting in a steamy room, like the bathroom while the shower is running.
Kept the curtains closed if the child is sensitive to light.
Those with the measles should be kept isolated to prevent the spread because it is highly infectious. The child's school or preschool should also be advised.
The tiny spots on the inside of the mouth will confirm diagnosis. The measles also can be identified with a blood test.
Measles has a low death rate in healthy children. However, in malnourished children there is a small but real risk of death.
Seek immediate medical attention for your child if they complain of a stiff neck, cannot breath properly, are hard to wake, are coughing up green or yellow phlegm, have sore ears or have not urinated for 10 hours.