What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the measles virus, a member of the
Paramyxoviridae family. It primarily affects children but can occur in people of any age who are not vaccinated. The virus is known for causing severe complications and, in some cases, death.
Transmission
Measles is transmitted through
respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain infectious in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. This makes it extremely contagious, with an estimated 90% infection rate among non-immune individuals who come into contact with the virus.
Symptoms
The
symptoms of measles typically appear 7-14 days after exposure to the virus. Early symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. These are followed by the appearance of a distinctive red rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
Complications
Measles can lead to severe complications such as
pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (a rare but fatal degenerative disease of the central nervous system). These complications are particularly dangerous for young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Epidemiology and Outbreaks
Measles is endemic in many parts of the world, but large-scale outbreaks can occur, especially in communities with low vaccination coverage. The
basic reproduction number (R0) for measles is between 12 and 18, making it one of the most contagious diseases known. This means that, in a completely susceptible population, each infected person can spread the virus to 12-18 others.
Vaccination
The
measles vaccine, usually administered as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, is highly effective in preventing the disease. Two doses of the vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles. Vaccination not only protects individuals but also contributes to
herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
Global Efforts and Challenges
Global health organizations, including the
World Health Organization (WHO) and the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have made significant efforts to eliminate measles worldwide. Despite these efforts, challenges such as vaccine misinformation, logistical barriers, and political instability continue to hinder progress.
Conclusion
Measles remains a significant public health concern due to its high contagion rate and potential for severe complications. Vaccination is the most effective measure to prevent measles and its associated outbreaks. Continuous global efforts are required to achieve higher vaccination coverage and eliminate the disease.
