What is measles?

Understanding Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the measles virus. It primarily affects children, though it can occur at any age if an individual has not been vaccinated or previously had the infection. Measles has historically been one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among young children worldwide, though vaccination efforts have significantly reduced the incidence of the disease in many countries, including the UK.

Signs and Symptoms of Measles

The symptoms of measles typically appear about 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. The illness usually begins with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. These early symptoms are referred to as the prodrome or pre-eruptive stage. After a few days, a characteristic red rash begins to develop on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body. The rash typically lasts about five to six days before fading. In severe cases, measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.

Prevention and Vaccination

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is routinely given to children in the UK, with the first dose administered around 12 months of age and a second dose typically given before school entry. Achieving high vaccination coverage is crucial to prevent measles outbreaks. The success of the vaccination programme in the UK has led to a significant decrease in measles cases. However, pockets of unvaccinated individuals can still lead to outbreaks, which emphasizes the necessity of maintaining high vaccination rates and ensuring catch-up vaccinations for those who missed their doses.

Treatment and Management of Measles

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles, and management primarily involves supportive care. Patients are advised to rest, stay hydrated, and use medications like paracetamol to reduce fever and alleviate symptoms. Vitamin A supplements are sometimes given to children under two years old, as they have been shown to reduce the severity of measles complications. It's important for individuals suspected of having measles to stay isolated to prevent the spread of the virus, especially to those who are vulnerable, such as young infants and immunocompromised individuals.

The UK health authorities actively monitor measles cases, ensuring swift public health responses to contain outbreaks and provide the necessary interventions to protect public health. Through continued awareness and vaccination efforts, the goal is to keep measles a rare disease.