“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects children. It is caused by the measles virus and is spread through the air by respiratory droplets from an infected person.
Symptoms of measles typically appear 10-14 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. In severe cases, measles can cause complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.
There is no specific treatment for measles, and the virus must run its course. However, supportive care can be provided to relieve symptoms, such as fever and cough. Complications of measles may require hospitalization and more intensive treatment.
Prevention of measles is possible through vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This vaccine is recommended for all children and adults who have not been vaccinated or have not had the disease. In addition, good hygiene practices, such as handwashing and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, can help prevent the spread of the measles virus.