Measles

Measles is a systemic infection caused by the measles virus. Spread via respiratory droplets. The incubation period is 6-19 days

Clinical presentation

• Prodromal period 1 to 3 days before the rash, characterized by upper respiratory symptoms, conjunctivitis, and Koplik spots
• Rash- maculopapular and spreads from the face to the extreme ties
• Generalized lymphadenopathy and diarrhea
• Atypical presentation is found in the poorly nourished, immunocompromised, or vitamin deficient. The rash is absent and presents with encephalitis or pneumonitis.
• May exacerbate tuberculosis
• Maybe severe in pregnant women
• Mortality is mainly at extremes of age

Diagnosis

• Mainly clinical
• Serology for IgM antibodies

Management

• Normal immunoglobulin in pregnant women and the immunocompromised, within six days of exposure
• Vitamin A for uncomplicated disease
• Antibiotics for bacterial complications

Complications

1. Otitis media
2. Bacterial pneumonia
3. Pancreatitis and transient hepatitis
4. Clinical encephalitis
5. Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis( late)

Causes of death

Mainly due to bacterial superinfection;

1. Pneumonia
2. Diarrhoea
3. Noma Oris
4. Encephalitis

Prevention

• Vaccination- part of MMR( Measles Mumps Rubella)
• Natural infection confers lifelong immunity