Understanding Measles: Symptoms, Spread, and How to Protect Your Family
Recently, there has been a case of measles in our area, so it's important to know more about this highly contagious disease. If you were in the following places, you may have been exposed to the virus:
Flight UA1832/SN8869 (Brussels Air operated by United Airlines) on Tuesday, June 17th, departing from Chicago O'Hare Airport at 4:01 p.m. and arriving at Portland International Airport at 6:29 p.m.
Portland International Airport arrivals and baggage claim between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17th.
Safeway at 401 A Ave., Lake Oswego, in Clackamas County, on Sunday, June 22nd, between 11:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Currently, measles has been found in 32 states this year, and the number of cases might keep rising. This blog will help you understand measles better and give you tips on how we can all help stop it from spreading.
What is Measles?
Measles is a disease caused by a virus that spreads very easily. It mostly affects children, but people of any age who haven't been vaccinated can get it. The symptoms include:
A red, blotchy rash
A high fever
Flu-like symptoms such as a cough, runny nose, and watery eyes
Even though we have a vaccine that works well, measles is still a big problem in some areas, especially where not enough people are vaccinated.
Symptoms of Measles
Measles usually starts showing up 10 to 14 days after someone has been exposed to the virus. The illness goes through 4 main stages:
Prodromal Phase (First Stage): This stage starts with a high fever (104°F), a cough, a runny nose, and red, watery eyes. It lasts about 2 to 4 days.
Koplik Spots: These are tiny white spots that can appear inside the mouth, usually 1 or 2 days before the rash.
Rash Phase: A red, blotchy rash starts on the face and spreads down to the neck, trunk, and limbs. The rash lasts about 5 to 6 days.
Recovery Phase: After the rash fades, the skin may peel, especially where the rash was thick. Coughing and tiredness can last for a few more days to weeks.
Some people with measles may also get serious complications like pneumonia, diarrhea, ear infections, and even brain swelling (encephalitis) or death, especially if they have weak immune systems or are not well-nourished.
How Does Measles Spread?
Measles spreads easily when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can stay in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. This means that if you are close to someone with measles, there's a good chance you could catch it. Around 90% of people who come into contact with the virus and are not vaccinated will get sick.
People with measles can spread the virus for about 4 days before the rash appears and 4 days after it starts.
How Do You Treat Measles?
There is no specific medicine to cure measles. Doctors focus on helping people feel better and treating any serious problems that come up.
Here are some ways to manage measles:
Fever and pain: Doctors might recommend medicine like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to lower the fever.
Stay hydrated: It's important to drink plenty of fluids.
Hospitalization: Some people with severe cases may need to go to the hospital, especially if they get pneumonia or brain swelling.
If there are any other infections like a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be needed.
How Can You Prevent Measles?
The best way to prevent measles is by getting vaccinated. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is given in two doses:
First dose: At 1 year old
Second dose: At 4 years old
The vaccine is 97% effective after both doses. If you get the first dose, it's still about 93% effective.
Vaccination is the most important way to stop measles from spreading. Other strategies include:
Keeping people with measles at home so they don’t spread the disease.
Educating the public about how to stay safe and healthy.
Watching for signs of measles outbreaks.
Is the Vaccine Safe for Infants Under 1 Year?
Most babies get the MMR vaccine at 12 months old. This is because their immune system works best when the vaccine is given at this age. However, in certain situations—like during an outbreak or if you are traveling to an area with measles—your doctor may recommend getting the vaccine as early as 6 months. This gives temporary protection until the baby gets the full vaccination at the normal age.
Studies show that the MMR vaccine is safe and works well. The most common side effects are mild, like fever or a sore arm, and serious side effects are very rare.
Conclusion
Measles is still a serious disease, but we can prevent it with vaccines. By getting vaccinated on time and following the right steps, we can stop the spread of measles and keep our communities safe. If you're concerned about your baby or family, talk to your doctor, especially if there's an outbreak in your area.
Stay safe and protect those around you by making sure you're up-to-date on your vaccinations!