Measles: Why Vaccination Matters
A sick person can spread measles by coughing, sneezing, breathing, or talking. From there, others can become infected by breathing that air or by touching their hands or faces with the virus.Measles is a disease that can cause serious health complications, especially in children under 5 years of age, such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, ear infections, diarrhea, and severe dehydration. This disease, caused by a virus, is highly contagious.
The measles virus spreads through the air. A sick person can spread measles by coughing, sneezing, breathing, or talking. From there, others can be infected by breathing that air or by touching their hands or faces with the virus, because it can remain suspended in the air for 2 hours after the infected person leaves the area. A person with the measles virus is contagious 2 to 4 days before the rash appears and until the rash disappears. Symptoms begin about 7 to 14 days after infection. An infected person first notices a fever, nasal congestion, throat irritation, dry cough, and red eyes. Tiny white spots, called Koplik’s spots, appear in the mouth. After 3 to 5 days, a rash appears on the skin, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. No special tests are needed to diagnose it. There is no cure for measles; the infection must run its course. Treatment includes comfort, symptom control, good rest and hydration, and the importance of isolating the infected person for 4 days after the rash appears to prevent the spread of the virus. Fever can be treated with medication when the infection is mild, and if it persists, complications are treated with antibiotics. Vaccines are the best defense against measles. The so-called MMR is safe and effective. U.S. national coverage of this vaccine has declined due to low demand for applications and is now below target, with much lower coverage in some communities, including Alaska. Measles was declared eradicated in the U.S. in 2000. Outbreaks of this virus have resurfaced, affecting preschool and school-age children. Also, in previously vaccinated adolescents and young adults, this occurs when the virus is transmitted from one person to another. It is important to know that the first measles infection immunizes the person for life because it strengthens the immune system against that disease. The spread of the virus has also increased globally. The same thing happens in Argentina, since it is a virus that is not seasonal; however, it usually spreads during high-traffic periods, such as spring, summer, or vacations, especially in situations where unvaccinated people are in close quarters, such as camps, where they can infect others. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends two doses in children: one at 12 months of age and one at 4-6 years; and in older children, adolescents, and adults, without documented doses. The Anchorage Health Department offers vaccinations and walk-in appointments. For more information, call (907) 343-4799 or visit the clinic at 825 L St. |