Measles – Treatment, Causes & Symptoms

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Measles is a viral infection very common in children of all ages, but mainly under 5 years.  It is a highly infectious viral condition, causing a maculo popular rash. It generally occurs between the month of february to april, which are epidemic seasons for measles but can occur throughout the year. Initially characterized by high grade fever, red runny eyes, runny nose, for one or two days. The  typical koplik spots in the buccal   mucosa are diagnostic but can only be seen by a doctor. The rash starts behind the ears and on the face. Red spots around 1-2 cm start appearing. This is known as macula-papular rash. It then spreads to the body, upper arms and by the 4th or 5th day it spreads to the lower limbs. As the rash appears on the lower limbs, it starts vanishing from the face. However, the rash does not disappear completely, but leaves behind a blotchy appearance. Turning dark brown and takes about 10 days to go away completely.





The fever is generally high grade and accompanied by cough, runny nose, in some cases severe chest infection. According to Dr. Mubina Agboatwalla, a child specialist in Karachi, in some children there maybe associated diarrhea; complications are common with measles. Post measles pneumonia, post measles encephalitis (whereby the patient may develop swelling of the brain, unconsciousness and fits). After measles, the child may lose weight, lose appetite and become lethargic. Vitamin A capsules (3 doses) prevents post measles complications. The immunity generally reduces after measles.

Measles is highly infectious and there are strong chances of other children in the same household or school developing measles. Measles vaccination is extremely important and necessary for all children.

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