If the recent measles outbreak in Myanmar is to be taken seriously, measles Vaccination should be compulsory for all children above 9 months of age and on a war footing.
The recent measles Vaccination drives taken up by the health department comes as a breather and alleviates any reason to panic, although one must be watchful. Studies indicate that more than 99% of persons who receive two doses of measles vaccine develop serologic evidence of measles immunity. Measles is a viral infection caused by a virus in the paramyxovirus family and it is normally passed through direct contact and through droplets in the air. The virus infects the mucous membranes, then spreads throughout the body. It starts with fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and sore throat. It’s followed by a rash that spreads over the body.Over about 3 days, the rash spreads, eventually reaching the hands and feet. The rash lasts for 5 to 6 days, and then fades.
Most measles related deaths are caused by complications associated with the disease. It is more common in children under the age of 5 years. The most serious complications include encephalitis (an infection that causes brain swelling), severe diarrhoea and related dehydration, ear infections, or severe respiratory infections such as pneumonia. Severe measles is more likely among poorly nourished young children, especially those with insufficient vitamin A, or whose immune systems have been weakened.
There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles infection.Severe complications from measles can be avoided and treated through appropriate supportive care in the hospital. Children in developing countries diagnosed with measles should receive two doses of vitamin A supplements, given 24 hours apart. Vitamin A supplements have been shown to reduce the number of deaths from measles by 50%.
Nutritious food and good hygiene (bathing regularly and hand washing) is key to prevention and early recovery from measles.
Dr. Akumtoshi, MD pediatrics FICM Treasurer Indian Academy of Pediatrics- Nagaland
