Measles Treatment in Indore

What is measles?

Measles is an extremely contagious viral infection caused by the measles virus.

It mainly affects the respiratory system, though skin, eyes, and the immune system may be involved.

Transmission occurs through:

Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing

Direct contact with the nasal or throat secretions of an infected host

Measles most commonly affects unvaccinated children but can occur at any age.

Symptoms of Measles

Symptoms usually appear within 7-14 days after exposure and progress in stages.

Early Symptoms (Prodrome)

High fever

Cough

Coryza, or runny nose

Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)

Koplik spots: small white spots inside the mouth (pathognomonic for measles)

Rash Stage

Red or reddish-brown rash appears 3-5 days after initial symptoms

Begins on the face and behind the ears, then spreads downward to the trunk and limbs

Fever may spike during rash

Rash lasts 5-6 days

Other Possible Symptoms

Fatigue, irritability, loss of appetite

Diarrhoea or vomiting (more common in children)

Complications-Serious Cases

Ear infections

Pneumonia-most common cause of death from measles

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain.

Severe diarrhoea and dehydration

Death (rare in developed countries, but can occur where access to healthcare is limited)

Treatment of Measles

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Care is supportive:

1. Symptom Relief

Fever: acetaminophen or ibuprofen (age-appropriate dosing )

Irritation of the throat or cough: soothing liquids and humidified air

2. Nutritional Support

Encourage fluids to avoid dehydration

Maintain a regular diet as tolerated

3. Vitamin A Supplementation

Recommended in many countries for children with measles

Reduces risk of severe complications, especially eye damage and mortality.

4. Treat Secondary Infections

Infections, such as pneumonia or ear infections, caused by bacteria may be treated with antibiotics.

5. Isolation

Isolate infected patients from unvaccinated or immunocompromised persons to avoid transmission of infection.

Prevention of Measles

Measles is highly preventable, both by vaccination and hygiene measures.

1. Measles Vaccination (MMR)

MMR vaccine protects against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella.

Schedule:

First dose: 12–15 months of age

Second dose: 4–6 years

Highly effective: 2 doses give ~97% immunity

2. Herd Immunity

Vaccination of high percentages of the population reduces outbreaks.

Protects infants and immunocompromised individuals

3. Avoid Exposure During Outbreaks

Limit contact with infected individuals

Practice good respiratory hygiene: cover coughs/sneezes, wash hands

4. Nutritional Support

Adequate nutrition and supplementation of vitamin A reduce the severity of infection that occurs

Key Points to Remember

Measles is highly contagious and begins with fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and Koplik spots, followed by a spreading rash.

Complications may be serious, particularly in young children and malnourished individuals.

Treatment is supportive with fluids, fever control, vitamin A and management of complications. Prevention is highly effective: two doses of the MMR vaccine protect nearly all children. Early isolation and hygiene reduce the spread.