Measles Infection Rising in Children

The alarming rise in measles infection rising in children has caught the attention of parents and healthcare experts worldwide. Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, poses serious health risks, especially to young children. Understanding why measles cases are increasing, its symptoms, treatment, and how to prevent it can help families stay safe and healthy.

What is Measles?

Measles is a viral infection caused by the Measles morbillivirus, which spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with infected individuals. The disease is notorious for its high transmission rate, with one infected person potentially spreading it to 90% of unvaccinated individuals nearby.

Why is Measles on the Rise?

The surge in measles infection in children can be traced to several key factors:

• Declining Vaccination Rates: Many children remain unvaccinated due to misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, or lack of access to healthcare.
• Global Travel: Increased international movement has allowed measles outbreaks to spread across borders.
• Weakened Public Health Systems: Limited resources and infrastructure have slowed vaccination campaigns in some regions.

The rise in measles cases serves as a reminder of the importance of widespread immunization.

Also read- Foods to Avoid for Children Under the Age of 5: A Parent’s Guide to Safe Eating

Why Are Measles Common in Children?

Children are more susceptible to measles because their immune systems are still developing. Additionally, incomplete vaccination schedules leave young children vulnerable to infection. Unvaccinated children in densely populated areas face the highest risk.

What Causes Measles?

Measles spreads through respiratory droplets from an infected person. The primary causes include:

1. Contact with Infected Individuals: Measles is highly contagious, making close contact risky.
2. Airborne Particles: The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes.
3. Poor Hygiene Practices: Limited handwashing and sanitation can contribute to outbreaks.

3 Types of Measles

1. Rubeola (Classical Measles)

Rubeola is the most common form of measles, characterized by its distinct red rash and severe symptoms like fever and cough.

2. Rubella (German Measles)

Rubella causes milder symptoms but poses a serious risk to unborn babies if contracted during pregnancy.

3. Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE)

This rare, fatal condition can develop years after a measles infection and affects the brain.

Measles Symptoms and Complications

Common Symptoms of Measles:

• High fever that begins 10-12 days after exposure
• Cough and runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Small white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
• Rash that starts on the face and spreads downward

Complications of Measles:

1. Pneumonia: This serious lung infection is the most common cause of death in measles cases.
2. Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain leads to seizures, memory loss, or permanent brain damage.
3. Severe Diarrhea and Dehydration: Young children face increased risks of malnutrition and dehydration.
4. Hearing Loss: Measles-related ear infections can cause permanent hearing damage.

How Long Does Measles Last?

Measles typically lasts 7 to 10 days from the appearance of the first symptoms. However, complications can extend the recovery period. The rash usually fades within a week, but the cough and fatigue may persist longer.

Treatment for Measles in Children

Measles has no specific antiviral treatment, but supportive care can ease symptoms and prevent complications. Follow these steps to treat measles effectively:

1. Hydration

Keep your child well-hydrated by offering water, oral rehydration solutions, or natural fluids like coconut water.

2. Nutrition

Boost recovery by including nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in their diet.

3. Vitamin A Supplements

Doctors often recommend vitamin A supplements to reduce the severity of measles and prevent blindness.

4. Fever Management

Use fever-reducing medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen under a doctor’s guidance.

5. Isolation

Prevent the spreading of measles to others by keeping the child isolated until at least four days after the rash disappears.

How Can Measles Be Prevented?

Measles infection rising in children: The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. After two doses, the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) offers 97% protection against the virus. Other preventive measures include:

1. Regular Vaccination Drives
   Ensure your child receives the MMR vaccine on schedule. Catch-up vaccination programs can help unvaccinated children.
2. Good Hygiene Practices
   Encourage frequent handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, and covering mouths while coughing or sneezing.
3. Awareness Campaigns
   Spread awareness about the dangers of measles and the importance of vaccination.
4. Avoid Crowded Places
   Minimize exposure to large gatherings during outbreaks to reduce the risk of infection.

What Can Cause a Measles Outbreak?

1. Vaccine Hesitancy

Misinformation about vaccines has led to lower vaccination rates, creating conditions for outbreaks.

2. Poor Healthcare Access

In underserved communities, limited access to vaccines and healthcare contributes to outbreaks.

3. High Population Density

Crowded living conditions increase the likelihood of virus transmission.

4. International Travel

Travelers carrying the virus can introduce measles to new populations.

Real-Life Example: How Vaccination Controls Measles

A rural district in India faced a severe measles outbreak due to vaccine shortages. After health authorities launched an intensive vaccination drive, cases dropped by 80% within three months. This example underscores how crucial immunization is in controlling measles outbreaks.

FAQs About Measles

1. Measles is Caused by Which Virus?

The Measles morbillivirus, a member of the paramyxovirus family causes measles.

2. Why Do Children Get Measles More Often?

Children are more likely to get measles because their immune systems are weaker, and some may not complete their vaccination schedule.

3. How Dangerous is Measles?

Measles can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and death, particularly in malnourished children.

Conclusion

The rise in measles infection among children highlights the critical need for vaccination and public health education. Measles remains a preventable disease, yet it continues to threaten children worldwide due to vaccine hesitancy and healthcare challenges.

By vaccinating children on time, promoting hygiene, and staying informed about the disease, we can protect families and communities. Let’s work together to eliminate measles and ensure a healthier future for all.