Measles: What You Need to Know
🤒 What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the measles virus (rubeola). It mainly affects children, but adults can get it too — especially if they are not vaccinated.
🦠 How Does It Spread?
- Measles spreads through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with an infected person.
- The virus can live in the air or on surfaces for up to 2 hours.
- A person with measles can spread the virus 4 days before and 4 days after the rash appears.
⚠️ Key Symptoms to Watch For:
- High fever (often over 101°F or 38.5°C)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Tiny white spots in the mouth (called Koplik spots)
- Red skin rash that usually starts on the face and spreads down the body
⛑️ Complications Can Include:
- Ear infections
- Diarrhea
- Pneumonia (lung infection)
- Encephalitis (brain swelling)
- Death (especially in children or the unvaccinated)
💉 Prevention:
- The best protection is the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella).
- Two doses provide about 97% protection.
- Vaccination is safe and widely recommended for children and adults.
🩺 What to Do If You Suspect Measles:
- Isolate the person to prevent spreading the virus.
- Contact a doctor immediately for diagnosis and guidance.
- Rest, hydrate, and manage fever with medical advice.