A Spot of Prevention

Measles are making a comeback. In a post-Covid lockdown world, we know just how difficult it can be to be to operate with a contagious virus afoot.

Unfortunately, Measles is one of the world’s most contagious diseases, even more so than Covid.

Measles spread through the air through coughing or sneezing, or by breathing the same air as an infected person. This includes kissing, shaking or holding hands, or sharing food or drink. The virus remains active for two hours in infected spaces and surfaces, and during that time, it is contagious. The measles are so contagious that if 10 unvaccinated people were in a room with an infected person, 9 of them would contract it. Children are especially vulnerable. Infected people remain contagious from about 4 days before a rash develops to 4 days after.

Thankfully you can get vaccinated at any age!

We have all fallen off of our masks, hand-washing, and distancing, but it is key to safety as such viruses make their rounds.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms are much like the common cold;

• High Fever

• Tiredness

• A barky cough

• Runny nose

• Red or bloodshot eyes

After these, a red, blotchy rash develops, and spreads from the face to the rest of the body. The rash lasts 7 - 10 days

Other symptoms

• Sore throat

• Muscle pain

• Sensitivity to light

• White spots in mouth

The infection can lead to a variety of complications, some more severe than others;

• Diarrhoea

• Ear Infection

• Eye Infections

• Pneumonia

• Voice Box Inflammation,

• Airway and lung infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and croup

Additional complications can present for people who are infected while pregnant.

Recovery:

Like a cold or flu, there is no real cure for measles - the virus must run its course.

Symptoms can be managed with rest, fluids, pain killers, and by gargling salt water.

Given just how contagious it is, staying home is advised when suffering measles. In most cases, recovery is excellent but there can be severe complications.