WHAT IS MEASLES, WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS AND HOW CAN YOU CATCH IT? Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads easily from an injected person by coughing, sneezing or even just breathing. Symptoms develop between six and 19 days after infection, and include a runny nose, cough, sore eyes, a fever and a rash. The rash appears as red and blotchy marks on the hairline that travel down over several days, turning brown and eventually fading. Some children complain of disliking bright lights or develop white spots with red backgrounds on their tongue. In one in 15 cases, measles can cause life-threatening complications including pneumonia, convulsions and encephalitis. Dr Ava Easton, chief executive of the Encephalitis Society says 'Measles can be very serious. it can cause encephalitis which is inflammation of the brain. Encephalitis can result in death or disability.' Treatment There's no specific treatment for measles, but the condition usually improves within 7 to 10 days. Your GP will probably suggest taking things easy at home until you're feeling better. Stay away from work or school for at least 4 days from when the measles rash first appears to reduce the risk of spreading the infection. You should also try to avoid contact with people who are more vulnerable to the infection, such as young children and pregnant women. Relieving symptoms If the symptoms of measles are causing discomfort for you or your child, there are some things you can do to treat these while you wait for your body to fight off the virus. Controlling fever and relieving pain Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used to reduce a high temperature (fever) and relieve any aches or pains if your child's uncomfortable. Liquid infant paracetamol can be used for young children. Aspirin should not be given to children under 16 years old. Speak to your pharmacist if you're not sure which medications are suitable for your child. Drink plenty of fluids If your child has a high temperature, make sure they drink plenty of fluids as they may be at risk of dehydration. Keeping hydrated may also help reduce throat discomfort caused by coughing. Treating sore eyes You can gently clean away any crustiness from your child's eyelids and lashes using cotton wool soaked in water. Closing curtains or dimming lights can help if bright light is hurting their eyes. Treating cold-like symptoms If your child has cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose or a cough, there are a number of things you can do to help them feel more comfortable. For example, it might help your child if they sit in a hot, steamy bathroom. Or you could put a wet towel on a warm radiator to moisten the air, which may help ease your child's cough. Drinking warm drinks, particularly ones containing lemon or honey, may also help to relax the airways, loosen mucus, and soothe a cough. Honey should not be given to babies under 12 months. Spotting signs of serious illness If you or your child has measles, you should keep an eye out for any signs of the serious complications that can sometimes develop. Signs of a more serious problem include: shortness of breath a sharp chest pain that feels worse with breathing coughing up blood drowsiness confusion fits (convulsions) Go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department or call 999 for an ambulance if you or your child develop any of these symptoms. Measles can be prevented by receiving two vaccinations, the first at 13 months old and the second at three years and four months to five years old. Source Source2
