Measles is not a thing of the past. There is a current outbreak affecting the U.S. that is disturbing health officials.
In fact, due in large part to the increasing numbers of people who have chosen not to vaccinate themselves or their children, the current measles outbreak is the largest seen in the U.S. since 2001.
Many college students and young adults may have never been vaccinated were it not a requirement of their schools.
Sixty-four cases of measles in the U.S. have been reported to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) between January and April 25, 2008. Eleven of those cases were children between five and nineteen years old.
CDC officials say that measles is being brought in by visitors from Europe and Israel. It is highly contagious, and direct contact may not even take place. If someone who has measles sneezes or coughs, the virus in the droplets will linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.
Measles Spreads Fast!
The measles virus can spread from four days before the rash breaks out until four days after the rash becomes apparent. Officials are warning that living in close quarters such as college dorms and summer camps can be a breeding ground for measles cases this year. Camps and schools are being advised to make vaccination mandatory this year. Students studying abroad should be vaccinated.
Symptoms of Measles
Measles symptoms include a rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and itchy, watery, reddened eyes. These can also be symptoms of allergies, colds and other ailments. And because measles is not common, even many health practitioners may not readily recognize it.
A telltale rash begins on the trunk of the body and spreads to the limbs, face and neck. The patient also has tiny, little white spots in their mouth that look like someone sprinkled salt in there.
Measles can lead to more serious illness and even death. Common complications are ear infections and pneumonia. Blindness and hearing loss can result as well. An unborn fetus can be harmed by the virus, and anyone whose immune system is compromised can be vulnerable as well.
Measles Precautions
BEFORE going to a medical office, clinic or emergency room, anyone suspecting measles should contact their health care practitioner so that precautions can be taken to avoid exposure to others.
Measles is a reportable illness, and anyone exposed must be contacted by public health. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should let their health care practitioner know so that appropriate measures can be taken.
Those with suspected or confirmed cases of measles should stay home until they are no longer contagious. This is at least four days after the rash appears, and they have no fever, cough or runny nose.
Treating Measles
Measles is a virus. No antibiotics are needed unless a secondary infection is suspected such as an ear infection or pneumonia. Measles is treated by treating the symptoms. Rest, fluids and ibuprofen or acetaminophen for fever are recommended. Do not give aspirin to children. Calomine lotion and oatmeal baths can sooth the itchy rash. Follow good handwashing and guidelines for avoiding colds and flu to avoid spreading the virus.
For more information about measles, see the CDC Website.
