Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by measles virus, a single stranded enveloped RNA virus of the genus morbillivirus and family paramyxoviridae. Humans are the natural host of this virus and it is transmitted when the infected droplets which are sprayed into the air when an infected person sneezes, coughs or talks is inhaled by others.
Disease burden
Measles kills almost 454000 people globally. 410000 of them are children under the age of 5 years (at risk group).
Nigeria accounts for 50% of this global figure. Nigeria is ranked alongside India and Pakistan as the top three nations with the largest burden of measles.
How can measles be identified?
The disease is characterized by cough, fever (high body temperature), eye redness, nasal discharge and spreading rash (maculopapular in nature).
Bright red spots with white speck at the centre (koplik spots) may be seen at the inner cheek region of the mouth. Some children present with weight loss, diarrhea and dehydration.
Management
It is usually supportive and not curative. High body temperature (fever) is managed with anti-pyretics like paracetamol. Aspirin is avoided due to REYES syndrome. Fanning, tepid sponging and exposure can be carried out to reduce temperature.
Rehydration with oral and intravenous fluid is required.
Vitamin A is required for fast recovery and to boost immunity.
Antibiotics are required for prevention and management of opportunistic infections.
Prevention
Measles vaccine is usually administered with that of mumps and rubella (MMR). It is given twice; 12-15 months, 4-6 years.
It is part of the expanded programmes on immunization by world health organization (WHO).
Conclusion
Prevention and adequate management are important to prevent pneumonia, blindness, deafness and infections which are the complications that can arise from measles. Prevention is always the best option. Prevention is better than cure.
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