What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the measles virus. It manifests as a rash, fever and respiratory symptoms. Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis and sometimes death.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Early symptoms of measles include:
A few days after these symptoms appear, a characteristic rash develops, usually starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body.
How is measles transmitted?
Measles is transmitted by air, mainly through respiratory droplets released when the infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can also survive on surfaces for a few hours, facilitating contamination by direct contact.
What is the incubation period for measles?
The incubation period for measles is generally 10 to 14 days after initial exposure to the virus. During this period, the infected person shows no symptoms, but may already be contagious.
How can measles be prevented?
The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine is highly effective and recommended for all children. Adults who have not been vaccinated, or who did not contract measles as children, should also be vaccinated.
What treatments are available for measles?
There is no specific treatment for measles, but supportive care can help relieve symptoms. This care includes:
What are the possible complications of measles?
Complications of measles can be serious, especially in young children, unvaccinated adults and immunocompromised people. Complications include
Why is measles vaccination important?
Measles vaccination is crucial not only to protect individuals, but also to create herd immunity. This helps prevent the spread of the virus within the community, particularly among vulnerable people who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
What should I do if I come into contact with someone who has measles?
If you have been in contact with a person with measles and have not been vaccinated, it is important to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Post-exposure vaccination can be effective if administered within 72 hours of exposure. Immunoglobulins can also be administered in certain cases to offer additional protection.
Is measles still common today?
Although measles has been largely eliminated in many regions thanks to vaccination, epidemics can still occur, mainly due to declining vaccination rates. Maintaining high vaccination rates is crucial to preventing a resurgence of the disease.
Should travelers be vaccinated against measles?
Yes, it is recommended that travelers, especially those going to areas where measles is endemic or where epidemics are ongoing, make sure they are vaccinated. Measles is still present in some parts of the world and can spread rapidly among unvaccinated populations.
What are the first signs of measles in children?
The first signs of measles in children include a high fever that can reach 40°C, a dry cough, a runny nose and red, irritated eyes. Soon afterwards, children develop Koplik spots, small white patches on the inside of the cheeks, followed by a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
How is measles diagnosed?
Measles is usually diagnosed clinically, based on characteristic symptoms and vaccination history. Laboratory tests may include blood tests to detect antibodies to the measles virus, or PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to identify the genetic material of the virus in respiratory samples.
How long is measles contagious?
A person with measles is contagious from four days before the onset of the rash to four days after its appearance. It's crucial to limit contact with others during this period to avoid spreading the virus.
How does measles affect pregnant women?
Measles can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, increasing the risk of complications such as pneumonia, hepatitis and miscarriage. Pregnant women who have not been vaccinated should avoid all contact with infected persons, and consult a health professional immediately in the event of exposure.
What role do online pharmacies play in preventing and treating measles?
Online pharmacies play a crucial role in providing accurate information on measles, offering remote consultations with healthcare professionals and facilitating access to vaccines and symptomatic treatments. They also make it easy to order symptom-relieving drugs and immunity-boosting products.
