Measles is viral infection. It is highly contagious. It causes fever, cough, and a rash. It was once a common childhood illness. Measles is now seen less often in the US. This is due to the use of the measles vaccine .
The measles virus is spread by:
Measles is communicable from:
These factors increase your chance of developing measles:
Tell your doctor is you have any of the risk factors.
Symptoms, which usually occur 8-12 days following exposure, include:
Full recovery, without scarring, generally takes 7-10 days from the onset of the rash.
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis is made from the symptoms and the rash. Lab tests are usually not needed.
Measles are caused by a virus. Therefore, it cannot be treated with antibiotics. The focus is on relieving symptoms.
In most cases, complications are rare. You may need to be hospitalized if you have a severe case. Complications may include:
If you are diagnosed with measles, follow your doctor's instructions .
Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent measles. The vaccine contains live viruses that can no longer cause disease. There is a single vaccine to prevent measles, and it is also available in combination with:
The regular schedule for giving the vaccine is at age 12-15 months and again at age 4-6 years. If you or your child has never been vaccinated against the measles, talk to the doctor.
In some cases, the MMR vaccine is given within three days after exposure. This can prevent or reduce symptoms. Immune globulin is given to certain unvaccinated people within six days of exposure. This is usually for infants and pregnant women.
Ask your doctor if the vaccine is right for you. In general, avoid the vaccine if you:
If you are not vaccinated, avoid contact with someone who has measles.
RESOURCES:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov/
National Foundation for Infectious Disease
http://www.nfid.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Caring for Kids
http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/
Public Health Agency of Canada
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/
References:
Berkow R. The Merck Manual of Medical Information . 17th ed. New York, NY: Simon and Schuster, Inc; 2000.
Glickman-Simon R. Measles vaccine. EBSCO Health Library website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/thisTopic.php?marketID=15topicID=81 . Updated February 2008. Accessed July 22, 2008.
Peter G, Gardner P. Standards for immunization practice for vaccines in children and adults. Infect Dis Clin North Am . 2001;15:9-19.
Red Book: 2003 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases . 26th ed. Washington, DC: American Academy of Pediatrics; 2003.
Last reviewed September 2009 by David Horn, MD, FACP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.