Measles

what is Measles ?

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that primarily affects children. It is caused by the measles virus and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The symptoms of measles typically appear 10-12 days after exposure and include fever, runny nose, cough, and a characteristic rash that spreads across the body.

In addition to the rash, people with measles may experience a range of other symptoms, including watery eyes, sensitivity to light, and small white spots on the inside of the cheeks (Koplik's spots). Measles can also cause more serious complications, such as pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death, particularly in young children and people with weakened immune systems.

Measles can be prevented through vaccination. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is highly effective and has been in widespread use for many decades. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), two doses of the MMR vaccine provide 97% protection against measles.

Despite the availability of the vaccine, measles outbreaks still occur in many parts of the world. This is often due to low vaccination coverage in certain populations or communities. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of measles in some countries, including the United States, due in part to the spread of misinformation about vaccines.

Measles is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in unvaccinated populations. In order to prevent the spread of the virus, it is important to maintain high levels of vaccination coverage in communities. This helps to create herd immunity, which makes it more difficult for the virus to spread from person to person.

In addition to vaccination, other measures can help prevent the spread of measles. These include good hygiene practices, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with infected people. If you suspect that you or someone you know has been exposed to measles, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

In conclusion, measles is a highly contagious and potentially serious disease that can be prevented through vaccination. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, outbreaks still occur in some parts of the world, and it is important to maintain high levels of vaccination coverage in communities to protect against the spread of the virus.