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Can Measles Cause Complications?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects children, although it can impact individuals at any age. While the illness is mostly known for its distinct rash, it is also associated with several potential complications, some of which can be severe. Understanding these risks is essential for encouraging vaccination and maintaining public health in the United Kingdom.
Common Complications of Measles
While most people recover from measles without lasting effects, complications are not uncommon. In particular, younger children and adults over 20 years old may experience complications more frequently. Common issues include ear infections (otitis media), which can lead to temporary hearing problems, and diarrhea. Both conditions can exacerbate discomfort and prolong recovery time, particularly in young children with less robust immune systems.
Severe Complications
More severe complications, though less frequent, pose significant health risks. Measles can lead to pneumonia, a serious lung infection, which is the most common cause of measles-related deaths in young children. Another serious complication is encephalitis, a potentially fatal condition that causes brain swelling. Encephalitis occurs in approximately 1 in 1,000 cases and can result in lasting neurological damage for survivors.
Long-term Complications
An alarming long-term complication of measles is subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare but fatal neurodegenerative disease that can occur 7 to 10 years after a measles infection. SSPE is untreatable and underscores the importance of measles prevention through vaccination.
Prevention through Vaccination
The most effective method of preventing measles and its complications is vaccination. The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is offered to all children in the UK, with two doses providing about 97% protection against measles. This high level of efficacy is crucial for safeguarding individuals and broader communities by ensuring herd immunity.
In conclusion, while measles can cause a range of complications, from mild to life-threatening, vaccination remains a safe and effective way to protect against the virus and its potential effects. Understanding these risks helps reinforce the need for comprehensive vaccination coverage across the UK population.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common complications of measles?
Common complications of measles include ear infections, diarrhoea, and respiratory infections such as pneumonia.
Can measles cause serious complications?
Yes, measles can lead to serious complications such as encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain, and can also result in death in severe cases.
How does measles lead to pneumonia?
Measles can weaken the immune system and damage the respiratory tract, making the body more susceptible to bacterial infections like pneumonia.
Is hearing loss a complication of measles?
Yes, measles can cause ear infections, which can lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss.
Can measles affect pregnant women?
Yes, if a pregnant woman contracts measles, it can lead to complications like miscarriage, preterm birth, or a low-birth-weight baby.
Are children more at risk of measles complications?
Children under 5 years and adults over 20 years are at a higher risk of developing complications from measles.
Can encephalitis from measles be treated?
While there is no specific treatment for encephalitis, supportive care in a hospital can help manage symptoms.
How common is death from measles complications?
In developed countries like the UK, the risk of death from measles complications is low due to access to good healthcare, but it still can occur.
Is blindness a possible complication of measles?
Yes, measles can lead to blindness, especially in children with inadequate vitamin A or those who are malnourished.
Can measles lead to long-term health issues?
Yes, apart from immediate complications, measles can cause subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare but fatal brain disorder that can develop years later.
How can measles complications be prevented?
The best way to prevent complications is through vaccination with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.
Are measles complications more severe in certain demographics?
Complications tend to be more severe in unvaccinated individuals, infants, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
Can vitamin A help prevent measles complications?
Yes, vitamin A supplements are recommended for treating children with measles as they can help prevent eye damage and reduce the risk of severe complications.
Is diarrhoea a complication of measles?
Yes, diarrhoea is a common complication of measles, which can lead to dehydration.
Why are vaccines important in preventing measles complications?
Vaccines are crucial because they provide immunity against measles, reducing the incidence and helping prevent the associated complications by controlling outbreaks.
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