Eight things you should know about measles
People are protected if they have two doses of MMR vaccine, lab proof of immunity, or a prior measles infection diagnosed by a healthcare provider. If someone is not protected, contact a healthcare provider right away as the MMR vaccine may be provided within 72 hours of an exposure.
By Casandra Andrews
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Measles, a highly contagious childhood disease once nearly eliminated in the U.S., has resurfaced as outbreaks continue to be reported in multiple states. Closer to home, there have been several cases reported in neighboring Escambia County, Florida.
USA Health, the academic health system for the University of South Alabama, recently launched a Measles Task Force in Mobile to help educate everyone on the infectious disease. Here are eight facts you should know about measles:
What it is
Measles is a contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can stay in the air for up to two hours after a person leaves the room. If you or your child is vaccinated, the risk of becoming infected with measles is extremely low.
Measles symptoms
Symptoms usually begin seven to 14 days after exposure and may include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Rash that starts on the face and spreads
What to do if you have measles
If you contract the measles, health officials say you should stay home until four full days after the rash starts. Do not go to work, school, daycare, or public places. You should also avoid visitors and contact with babies, those who are pregnant, and people with weakened immune systems. If you need medical care, call before going to a healthcare facility so they can protect others before you arrive.
Measles treatment
Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Care should focus on rest and fluids, and fever control, which includes taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen. While children should not be given aspirin, Vitamin A may be recommended for pediatric patients.
When to seek emergency care
If you have been diagnosed with measles and later have trouble breathing, severe weakness or confusion, seizures, signs of dehydration, and worsening symptoms after initial improvement, you should seek emergency medical care.
Special information for pregnancy
Measles can be more serious during pregnancy and may increase the risk of pneumonia and preterm birth. If you are pregnant, call your obstetrics provider immediately if you have been exposed or become symptomatic. Do NOT go to a clinic or hospital without calling first. Immune globulin may be recommended within six days of exposure since the MMR vaccine is not given during pregnancy.
Protecting others in your home
People are generally protected if they have two doses of MMR vaccine, lab proof of immunity, or a prior measles infection diagnosed by a healthcare provider. If someone is not protected, contact a healthcare provider right away as the MMR vaccine may be provided within 72 hours of an exposure.
Measles prevention
The MMR vaccine is the best protection against the measles. Two doses are about 97% effective. For more questions, contact your healthcare provider or MCHD, the Mobile County Health Department.
