Measles: Everything You Need to Know About This Contagious Disease

Measles, caused by the measles virus, is one of the most contagious diseases in the world. Though it was largely eradicated in many parts of the world due to vaccination program, measles outbreaks still occur, making awareness and prevention crucial. In this blog, we’ll dive into the key details about measles, including its causes, symptoms, treatments, and how vaccination plays a vital role in preventing its spread.

This guide is written to inform readers in the United States, and it’s tailored for easy understanding with a human touch.

Table of Contents

1. What Is Measles?
2. Causes of Measles
3. Measles Symptoms: Early Signs to Watch For
4. The Measles Rash: What It Looks Like
5. The 3 Types of Measles
6. Measles in Adults: Risks and Challenges
7. Measles Treatment and Care
8. The Measles Vaccine: Your Best Protection
9. Conclusion

What Is Measles?

Measles, also called rubeola, is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the measles virus. It primarily affects children but can infect people of all ages, particularly those who are unvaccinated or have a weakened immune system.

The disease spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Once the virus enters the body, it typically takes 10–14 days for symptoms to appear. Without prompt vaccination efforts, measles can lead to complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), and even death.

Causes of Measles

Measles is an easily transmitted viral illness that occurs due to the measles virus, belonging to the Group of Paramyxoviridae. While it is most common in children, the disease can occur at any age, provided the person has not been immunized or the disease has built up immunity against it. Below are the key factors contributing to the spread of measles:

1. The Measles Virus

The measles virus is the direct cause of the disease. Once it enters the body, it infects the respiratory tract before spreading to other parts of the body through the bloodstream. It is known for its ability to suppress the immune system, making the infected person more vulnerable to other illnesses.

2. Transmission

Measles is primarily spread through respiratory droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can remain airborne or settle on surfaces, where the virus remains active for up to two hours. Unvaccinated individuals can easily contract the virus by breathing in contaminated air or touching infected surfaces.

3. Lack of Immunization

One of the leading causes of measles outbreaks is low vaccination coverage. The measles vaccine, often given as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, provides effective protection. In areas with low vaccination rates, the virus spreads rapidly, leading to outbreaks.

4. Weakened Immune Systems

People with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, or undergoing immunosuppressive treatments, are at higher risk of contracting measles and experiencing severe complications.

5. Travel and Migration

International travel can contribute to the spread of measles, as unvaccinated individuals may bring the virus from regions where measles is more common. Migrant populations and refugees from areas with low vaccination rates are also at heightened risk.

6. Crowded Living Conditions

Crowded environments, such as refugee camps, schools, or densely populated urban areas, facilitate the rapid spread of measles. Close contact between individuals makes it easier for the virus to transmit.

7. Malnutrition and Vitamin A Deficiency

Malnourished children, especially those deficient in vitamin A, are more susceptible to measles and its complications. A lack of proper nutrition weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

8. Herd Immunity Gaps

When a significant portion of the population is not immunized, the concept of herd immunity fails. This allows the virus to spread even among those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical conditions.

By understanding these causes, public health efforts can focus on increasing vaccination rates, improving nutrition, and ensuring timely access to medical care to prevent and control the spread of measles.

Measles Symptoms: Early Signs to Watch For

Measles is an extremely infectious viral illness which has got specific signs or clusters of symptoms that appear successively. It is therefore important that the sickness is diagnosed at an early stage so that its spread is contains as early as possible. Below are the key early signs and symptoms of measles to watch for:

1. Fever

One of the first symptoms of measles is a high fever, often exceeding 38°C (100.4°F). The fever typically appears 10–12 days after exposure to the virus and can last several days. It may be accompanied by general weakness or fatigue.

2. Cough

A dry, persistent cough is another early sign of measles. This symptom is often one of the first indicators, as the virus primarily affects the respiratory system.

3. Runny Nose

A runny or stuffy nose resembling symptoms of the common cold can also occur early in the infection. This nasal congestion is a sign that the body is trying to fight the virus.

4. Red, Watery Eyes (Conjunctivitis)

Measles often causes conjunctivitis, leading to red, irritated, and watery eyes. This symptom is sometimes accompanied by sensitivity to light (photophobia).

5. Koplik’s Spots

A unique and telltale sign of measles is the appearance of Koplik’s spots. These small, bluish-white spots with a red halo develop inside the mouth, typically on the inner lining of the cheeks. They usually appear 1–2 days before the characteristic measles rash.

6. General Malaise

Infected individuals often feel generally unwell, experiencing tiredness, aches, and a lack of energy. This symptom may be mistaken for the flu or a common viral infection.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you or someone you know develop these early signs especially if there is suspected contact with measles, or if you haven’t been vaccinated then ensure you consult a doctor. Therefore it is important to identify the virus early and isolate to avoid further damage and spread of the virus.

Patients may recognize these early symptoms so that appropriate treatment is sought, and severe outcomes are prevented.

The Measles Rash: What It Looks Like

The Measles Rash: What It Looks Like

One of the most recognizable signs of measles is its distinctive rash, which develops in the later stages of the infection. Understanding the appearance, progression, and characteristics of the measles rash is key to identifying the illness.

1. Appearance of the Rash

The measles rash consists of flat red spots, medically known as maculopapular rash. These spots may be slightly raised and can merge to form large blotches, giving the skin a blotchy or patchy look.

2. Progression of the Rash

The rash appears 3–5 days after the initial symptoms, such as fever, cough, and conjunctivitis. Its progression is as follows:

• Starts on the face: The rash typically begins around the hairline and behind the ears.
• Spreads downward: It gradually spreads to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet over the course of a few days.
• Fades in the same order: As the rash fades, it may leave behind a brownish discoloration or flaky skin.

3. Associated Symptoms

The rash is often accompanied by:

• High fever: The fever may spike as the rash spreads.
• Itching: Although not always present, some individuals may experience mild itching.

4. Duration of the Rash

The measles rash typically lasts for 5–7 days. It begins to fade once the immune system starts overcoming the virus.

5. How to Differentiate from Other Rashes

The measles rash can be mistaken for other illnesses, such as rubella, roseola, or allergic reactions. Key differentiating features include:

• The presence of Koplik’s spots inside the mouth.
• The sequence of spread from the face downward.
• Conjunctivitis and flu-like symptoms accompanying the rash.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you, or someone you know has a rash that accompanies other symptoms of measles, particularly after exposure or if the person was not vaccinated, it is important to seek medical attention.

Measles are a highly contagious disease, and identifying the rash associated with it is challenging but necessary for early diagnosis, risk reduction, as well as limiting the further transmission of the disease.

The 3 Types of Measles

Measles is a serious viral infection that can manifest in different forms, each with its own set of characteristics. While the most common form is the typical measles, there are other types that can present differently. Below are the three types of measles:

1. Classic Measles (Rubeola)

Classic measles, also known simply as measles or rubeola, is the most well-known and common form of the disease. It is characterized by the following:

• Incubation Period: After exposure to the virus, symptoms typically develop within 10–12 days.
• Symptoms: Initial symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes (conjunctivitis), and the telltale Koplik’s spots inside the mouth. The rash begins behind the ears and spreads downward across the body.
• Complications: This form of measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, ear infections, and encephalitis (brain inflammation). It primarily affects unvaccinated individuals.

2. Atypical Measles

Atypical measles refers to a less common and more unusual presentation of the disease. It usually occurs in individuals who were vaccinated with the old inactivated measles vaccine (used before 1968). The symptoms of atypical measles are often different from the classic form and include:

• Delayed Rash: The rash may appear later than usual, and it can be less widespread or even absent.
• Severe Fever: A much higher fever than in classic measles is often present.
• Symptoms: Atypical measles can also lead to more severe respiratory symptoms, including coughing and breathing difficulties.
• Complications: This type of measles is rarer but can still cause severe illness, particularly in those who are unvaccinated.

3. Congenital Measles (Congenital Rubella Syndrome)

Congenital measles, or more specifically congenital rubella, occurs when a pregnant woman contracts measles, and the virus passes through the placenta to infect the developing baby. This condition can cause serious birth defects and health complications for the infant, including:

• Deafness
• Blindness
• Heart defects
• Developmental delays
• Growth retardation

Although rubella and measles are different viruses, they both share some similar symptoms and are sometimes discussed together. The rubella vaccine, often combined with the measles vaccine as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), prevents congenital rubella.

Measles in Adults: Risks and Challenges

While measles is commonly associated with children, adults can also contract the disease, and in many cases, the risks and complications can be more severe. Adults who have not been vaccinated or are not immune are particularly vulnerable. Here’s a look at the risks and challenges associated with measles in adults.

1. Increased Risk of Complications

Adults are more likely to experience severe complications from measles compared to children. Some of the common complications include:

• Pneumonia: Measles can lead to a severe lung infection, which is one of the most common complications in adults.
• Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain, which can result in neurological damage, seizures, and, in rare cases, death.
• Ear Infections: Measles can cause middle ear infections, leading to hearing problems.
• Pregnancy Risks: For pregnant women, measles can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, or low birth weight for the baby.

2. Difficulty in Diagnosis

Measles in adults can sometimes be harder to diagnose, as its early symptoms may resemble those of other respiratory infections or flu-like illnesses. The classic symptoms of fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes may not always be immediately recognised, particularly in adults who have not been vaccinated and might not have expected the disease. Furthermore, the rash may appear later than usual, complicating the diagnostic process.

3. Higher Risk for Unvaccinated Adults

Adults who have not been vaccinated or have not had measles previously are at significant risk. In many countries, measles was nearly eradicated due to vaccination program, leading some adults to believe they are immune when they may not be. Without proper immunity, adults are susceptible to contracting measles, especially during outbreaks.

4. Longer Recovery Time

Adults often take longer to recover from measles compared to children. The combination of a weakened immune response, higher likelihood of complications, and the increased severity of the illness can result in a more prolonged recovery process.

5. Impact on Employment and Daily Life

Measles can cause significant disruption to daily life for adults, especially in terms of work. As measles is highly contagious, infected individuals are often required to take time off from work or social activities to prevent spreading the virus. The severity of the symptoms also means that adults may need extended sick leave, leading to financial or productivity challenges.

6. Vaccine Hesitancy and Misconceptions

Many adults in certain regions may have missed vaccination or delayed getting the measles vaccine due to misconceptions about the safety or efficacy of vaccines. This vaccine hesitancy can leave large sections of the adult population vulnerable to preventable diseases like measles. Education and awareness efforts are crucial to addressing these gaps in immunization.

Measles Treatment and Care

There’s no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Instead, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications.

Supportive Care:

1. Rest and Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential to prevent dehydration.
2. Medications:
   • Fever can be managed with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen.
   • Avoid aspirin, especially in children, as it can cause Reye’s syndrome.
3. Vitamin A: Doctors may prescribe vitamin A supplements, especially for children, as it helps reduce the severity of measles.
4. Treating Complications: In cases of secondary infections like pneumonia or ear infections, antibiotics may be prescribed.

The Measles Vaccine: Your Best Protection

The measles vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles. The vaccine is usually given as part of the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.

Vaccine Details:

• Dosage: The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine:
  • First dose: At 12–15 months of age.
  • Second dose: At 4–6 years of age.
• Effectiveness: Two doses provide about 97% protection against measles.

Why Vaccination Matters:

• Herd Immunity: When a large portion of the population is vaccinated, it reduces the risk of outbreaks, protecting those who can’t be vaccinated (e.g., babies or immunocompromised individuals).
• Eradication: Vaccination has significantly reduced measles cases globally, but maintaining high vaccination rates is essential to prevent its resurgence.

Conclusion

Measles is an infectious, although vaccine-preventable disease. It becomes possible to reduce the effects of measles on the population once we know what leads to the disease, how it may be identified, and when every individual should be vaccinated.

The measles vaccine is still the best bet for citizens in the United States to avoid future measles epidemics. While trying to understand measles in adults, trying to find out how to treat it, or merely attempting to find out what the rash that comes with measles looks like, one thing remains clear – information can save your life.

This way, having embraced awareness, prevention strategies, then, we can collectively close the gap and prevent measles.