Measles is considered as one of the most contagious diseases worldwide, with a recent report showing an 18 percent increase in cases globally in 2022, along with a 43 percent rise in deaths related to measles compared to 2021. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have estimated that the number of measles cases has now reached nine million, resulting in approximately 136,000 deaths.
Measles is spread through respiratory droplets from infected individuals, primarily through coughing and sneezing, and is highly infectious as it can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. Symptoms of measles include high fever, runny nose, conjunctivitis, white spots in the mouth, and a rash. Complications from measles can be severe, particularly in malnourished children and adults over 30, leading to complications such as ear infections, blindness, and severe respiratory problems. Pregnant women are also at risk of complications, and the disease can result in premature birth and low birth weight for the baby. While there is no specific anti-viral treatment for measles, supportive care such as rest, hydration, and fever-reducing medications is recommended. Vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles and is essential in protecting individuals and preventing the spread of the virus within communities.
Measles cases rise globally: Know 5 signs and symptoms – Detail Points
– Measles cases increased by 18 percent across the globe in 2022
– Deaths related to measles have climbed by 43 percent globally in comparison to 2021
– The estimated number of measles cases has now touched nine million
– Measles is a communicable disease that spreads through respiratory droplets from infected people
– The virus remains active in the air or on surfaces for about two hours
– Measles can cause continuous high fever, runny nose, conjunctivitis, white spots in the mouth, and rash
– Complications can include ear infections, blindness, severe diarrhea, encephalitis, and severe breathing problems
– Measles can be prevented through hygiene and the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine
– The MMR vaccine is typically administered in two doses around age one and between ages four and six
Measles cases rise globally: Know 5 signs and symptoms – FAQ’s
What is measles?
It is a communicable disease that spreads through respiratory droplets from infected people, especially through coughing and sneezing.
What are the common symptoms of measles?
Some of the signs and symptoms of measles you should look out for, include:
1. Continuous high grade fever
2. Runny nose
3. Conjunctivitis
4. White spots in the mouth
5. Rash
How to treat measles?
When it comes to measles treatment, there is no specific anti-viral treatment. But supportive care can help. That includes rest, hydration and fever-reducing medications. In severe cases, hospitalisation may be required.
