Measles Frequently Asked Questions: Symptoms, Prevention and More
What is measles
Measles is a respiratory disease provoked by a virus. There may be fatal complications. The CDC describes it as the most dangerous of all childhood rash/fever conditions.
It flows easily, but the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine can override it. The CDC suggests that all children and some adults take the MMR vaccine.
The US declared measles out of the nation in 2000, but its outbreak has continued since then and is still common in other countries.
What are the first symptoms, and how soon do they usually show?
People usually have a fever, cough, runny nose, and first red eyes. Within several days, a red rash begins on the face and can spread to the rest of the body. If you notice those signs, tell your doctor immediately.
What are the possible complications?
Diarrhea and ear infections, which can cause hearing loss, can occur as a result of measles.
Pneumonia and inflammation of the brain are other possible complications. About 1 or 2 out of every 1,000 children die from measles, the CDC estimates.
How does measles spread, and how easily?
You can catch measles from anyone with measles. If you are not immune, you are very likely to get it if you are around someone who has a virus that spreads easily.
Simply coughing or sneezing from an infected person causes the measles virus to go into the air, where you can breathe it. People can spread it 4 days before the measles rash and 4 days after the rash starts. The virus can remain on the surface or in the air for up to 2 hours. You can achieve this if you touch an infected surface and then your mouth, nose or eyes.
Measles is so contagious that 90% of people who are not immune will get the disease if they are close to someone who has it.
How can you stop measles?
It’s simple: get vaccinated.
You get two doses of the MMR vaccine. Babies usually receive the first dose when they are 12 months old, and each other before kindergarten.
On its Website, the CDC estimates the vaccine “very effective” and states that “one dose is approximately 93% effective in preventing measles and two doses are about 97% effective.”
Before the vaccination program began, 3-4 million people per year had measles in the US, and 400–500 of them died, the CDC estimates.
Do Adults Need the MMR Vaccine?
If you received two doses as a child, you are covered for life. You do not need a booster shot.
If you were not vaccinated, you may need it. “Generally, anyone who is 186 years of life or older should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Unless, they can show that they have either been vaccinated or with all three diseases [measles, mumps, And rubella], “the CDC’s Web site states.
Pregnant women should not get vaccinated until they have a child. People allergic to vaccine ingredients should not do this.
Not sure? Ask your doctor.
If you feel that you have not had measles and have not been vaccinated, can you still get vaccinated?
Yes, but you have to get it within 72 hours of its taking effect.