Measles is highly contagious and can cause some nasty complications, especially in young children and people with weakened immune systems.
So, what do you need to know about measles? Let's break it down.
Measles 101: The Basics
Measles is a viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It's so contagious that if you're not immune, you have a 90% chance of getting it if you're exposed.
Measles Symptoms: What to Look For
Measles usually starts with flu-like symptoms:
- High fever: This is often the first sign and can reach up to 104°F (40°C).
- Cough: A dry, hacking cough is common.
- Runny nose: Your nose might feel like a leaky faucet.
- Red, watery eyes: This is also known as conjunctivitis.
- Sore throat: It can feel like you've swallowed sandpaper.
A few days later, the telltale measles rash appears. It starts as flat red spots on the face and spreads down the body.
Koplik Spots: A Measles Calling Card
Another hallmark of measles is Koplik spots. These are tiny white spots with a bluish-white center that appear inside the mouth. They're like measles' calling card, showing up a couple of days before the rash.
Measles Complications: The Scary Stuff
While most people recover from measles within a couple of weeks, it can cause some serious complications:
- Ear infections: These are common and can lead to hearing loss.
- Pneumonia: This is a serious lung infection that can be life-threatening, especially in young children.
- Encephalitis: This is inflammation of the brain and can cause seizures, brain damage, or even death.
- Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE): This is a rare but fatal brain disease that can occur years after a measles infection.
Protecting Yourself and Your Loved Ones
The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles is to get vaccinated. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective. It's usually given in two doses, with the first dose at 12-15 months of age and the second dose at 4-6 years of age.
If you're not sure if you're immune to measles, talk to your doctor. They can do a blood test to check your immunity.
FAQs: Your Measles Questions Answered
- Can adults get measles? Yes, anyone who hasn't been vaccinated or had measles before can get it.
- Is measles dangerous? Yes, it can cause serious complications, especially in young children and people with weakened immune systems.
- Can you get measles twice? It's rare, but it's possible if you didn't develop full immunity from the first infection or vaccine.
- How is measles treated? There's no specific treatment for measles. Most people recover with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers.
The Bottom Line
Measles is a serious disease, but it's preventable with vaccination. If you have any concerns about measles, talk to your doctor. They can help you make informed decisions about your health and the health of your loved ones.
Remember: Measles is highly contagious, so if you think you or your child may have it, seek medical attention immediately. [***CLB]
