Overview
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness of childhood causing high fever, cough, red eyes and a spreading rash. It weakens a child's immunity and can lead to pneumonia, diarrhoea and blindness — outbreaks occur where vaccination coverage dips. Two doses of measles vaccine protect almost completely.
Symptoms
- High fever
- Cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes
- Tiny white spots inside the cheeks
- Red-brown rash starting at the hairline and spreading down
- Irritability and poor feeding
- Diarrhoea in some children
Causes & risk factors
- Measles virus spread by coughs and sneezes
- Missed measles vaccination
- Crowded living conditions during outbreaks
- Vitamin A deficiency worsening severity
Treatment & self-care
There is no specific antiviral; care includes fluids, fever control, feeding support and vitamin A given by a health worker, which reduces complications. Keep the child away from others, and watch closely for fast breathing or drowsiness. Ensure every child receives both doses of measles vaccine on schedule.
See a doctor urgently if
- Fast or difficult breathing
- Drowsiness, convulsions or refusal to feed
- Persistent diarrhoea or signs of dehydration
- Eye pain or discharge
- Measles in a baby under one year or a malnourished child