Measles

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious health consequences, including pneumonia, encephalitis (a brain infection), and even death. In recent years, measles has made a comeback, particularly in the U.S. This resurgence has been attributed to weakened immunity due to factors such as global travel and exposure to other diseases. So what do you need to know about measles? Read on for answers to some of the most common questions.

Measles Outbreak: In Mumbai Measles Cases Climb Over 200, Death Tally Reaches 13

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can be fatal in very high numbers. It’s no surprise, then, that measles outbreaks are becoming more and more common—especially in developing countries like India. In the city of Mumbai alone, over 200 cases have been reported—and that’s just the beginning.

The death tally stands at 13, and the disease is expected to continue spreading until measures are put into place to halt the outbreak. The best way to protect yourself from measles is by getting vaccinated. However, even if you don’t live in an area where the outbreak is happening, it’s still important to get vaccinated in order to reduce your risk of catching the virus. Check out our blog post on vaccines for more information on why they are so important.

As per reports, the child who died on Thursday had developed symptoms like fever, cold, cough, rashes and labored breathing on Sunday following which he was admitted. By Monday, the child’s health further deteriorated and he was put on life support. The child reportedly died from multiple organ failure.

The first death was reported in October when three children had died from the disease within 48 hours. Measles is more contagious than COVID and can cause serious complications especially in children who are under five years of age.

What is measles?

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause serious illness in people of all ages. There is no specific treatment for measles, and it can lead to death in some cases. In the U.S., measles outbreaks have occurred in pockets across the country since 2014. Here are five facts about measles you need to know:

1) Measles is a highly contagious virus that can be spread through the air from person to person. It can also be spread through contact with infected saliva, mucus, or blood.

2) Symptoms of measles typically develop within two weeks after exposure to the virus and include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A rash may also develop a few days after the initial symptoms start and may progress from light to severe in appearance.

3) Measles can cause serious health complications including pneumonia, encephalitis (a serious brain infection), and even death in some cases. In addition, it can affect fertility and pregnant women who contract measles during pregnancy may deliver prematurely or have a low birth weight baby.

4) The best way to prevent measles is by getting vaccinated against the virus. The vaccine is usually effective if administered before exposure to the virus. However, even if you have been vaccinated against measles, you may still become infected if you come in contact with an infected person or object.

5) Measles prevention efforts are ongoing across the U.S., with communities working together to

What are the symptoms of measles?

There are two types of measles, the milder and more common form, and the more severe form which can cause encephalitis (a swelling of the brain). Symptoms of the milder form include fever, a runny nose, and a cough. Symptoms of the more severe form include rash all over the body, high fever, seizures, and coma.

Measles is highly contagious and can be spread through coughing and sneezing. It is most commonly spread through contact with respiratory secretions, such as saliva or mucus from an infected person. Prevention involves avoiding exposure to people who are sick with measles and getting vaccinated if you are not already immune.

Treatment for measles depends on the severity of symptoms. In general, treatment includes rest, fluids, antipyretics (pain relievers), antibiotics if needed, and supportive care including oxygen therapy if necessary. About one-third of people who develop measles will develop encephalitis, which can be fatal in up to 10% of cases.

How is measles spread?

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the measles virus. The virus is spread through the air, most commonly through coughing and sneezing. Measles can also be spread through contact with an infected person’s saliva or mucus, through direct contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth, or through contact with contaminated objects. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. In severe cases, measles can cause pneumonia and death. The best way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated against it.

How can you prevent measles?

There are things you can do to prevent measles from spreading if it is introduced into your community. The first step is to be aware of the symptoms and know how to identify measles if you see someone who may be infected.

If you think someone may have measles, do not touch them unless they are wearing a medical mask. Remove any excess clothing so the person can get cool and spread the disease less. Talk to other people in your community about how they are preparing for potential outbreaks and make sure everyone knows how to avoid getting measles.

Measles can be deadly if not treated quickly, so please take these steps to protect yourself and others:

-Get vaccinated against measles if you are age 1 or older. There is currently a vaccine available for both adults and children 12 months or older. Ask your doctor about obtaining a vaccine, or look for information about vaccinations on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website or through your local health department.

-Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze and cough, especially if those exposures occur near others who may be unvaccinated or at high risk for infectious diseases like measles. Droplets from an infected person’s mouth can spread disease up to three feet away. Dispose of any excreted materials (like vomit) immediately, regardless of whether they appear dry or wet. Do not handle these materials with your hands! Put them in a safe place like a trashcan instead.

-Stay informed

What should you do if you get measles?

If you are exposed to measles, the best thing to do is stay away from people who are sick and get vaccinated. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is 78-95% effective in preventing measles. If you have never been vaccinated or if your vaccination was less than 2 years ago, please see your doctor to get vaccinated.

Conclusion

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. Although it’s been largely eliminated from the United States and other developed countries due to widespread immunization programs, measles continues to circulate in countries with low vaccine coverage rates. If you are traveling to one of these areas or have close contact with someone who is infected, you should get vaccinated against measles as soon as possible.