What is measles and how is it transmitted?
It is a disease caused by a virus. It develops in humans; it is very contagious and is transmitted from person to person by inhaling small drops of respiratory secretions, expelled by a contagious person when speaking, coughing or sneezing.
What should I do when I suspect measles?
If you have had a fever for more than two days, a skin rash and cough, go to the health care center closest to your home. You will be evaluated by health personnel and will be tested for measles. Always have your updated vaccination card handy and show it at the care center. If you have traveled abroad or come from another country, inform the treating doctor who is conducting the evaluation. Avoid visiting public places such as kindergartens, schools, universities, stadiums, cinemas, shopping centers, workplaces, among other places where several people are gathered.
How long should a suspected case of measles remain in isolation?
If it is confirmed, the person must remain at least seven (7) days in isolation, starting from the day of the appearance of the outbreak on the skin. Isolation must be strictly complied with; that is, there should be no contact with people who have not received the two doses of measles-rubella vaccination.
What preventive measures are there?
Vaccination is the best form of prevention. This is done with the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella) or with bivalent vaccine (measles, rubella). It is important to: not have contact with people who may be sick; use face masks; and wash hands frequently.
Who should be vaccinated?
- All children who reach 12 months of age with the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella)
- 5-year-old children with a MMR vaccine reinforcement (measles, mumps, rubella)
- Children up to 10 years, 11 months and 29 days of age with MMR vaccine.
What should they bring to the vaccination appointment?
People must bring their immunization card to verify that they have the complete vaccination scheme for their age. If they do not have it or you have lost it, they can also go to the vaccination station. They must make sure to keep the card in a safe place.
Alarm Symptoms
Go immediately to the point of care if you have these symptoms:
- A fever higher than 38.5 degrees for 4 to 7 days
- Cough or runny nose
- Conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes)
- Small white patches on the inside of the cheek
- Rash or outbreak that starts on the head and descends to the entire body
- Rubella symptoms also include swollen lymph nodes behind the ears
Complications that can occur with measles
Measles cases can be complicated with pneumonia, ear infections, diarrhea and encephalitis that can lead to death. The infection can also lead to serious complications in pregnant women, and can even cause abortion or premature birth.
Who is more frequently complicated with measles?
- Children under 5 years old and adults over 30 years old
- Children with malnutrition and vitamin A deficiency
- Immunosuppressed people, including HIV
- Pregnant women
