Measles: Symptoms, Spread, and Treatment

Measles is a highly contagious virus that people don't need to overlook as it's capable of causing serious health problems. It's important to know the causes of measles, the symptoms, and the treatment available in order to take measures.

If there's any way you're suspected to have been exposed to measles, I'll advise you should seek medical attention immediately. measles may not have any specific cure, but treatment can help reduce the symptoms and make you live your normal life before.

In this article, I'll cover the basics of measles: what it is, how it spreads, and available treatment if you suspect you have it.

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What Are the Measles?

I believe you should know what measles are before proceeding to know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment.

As I pointed out above, measles is a highly contagious virus that causes a serious rash all over the body. It's usually spread through coughing and sneezing, and it can be very dangerous, especially for children. If I may say, measles is among the leading causes of death in kids around the world.

The good news is that measles has treatment and I believe one will get a quick recovery if properly treated by its doctor.

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What Are the Symptoms of Measles?

I believe that a lot of people out there must have been wondering what could be the symptoms of measles. Well, the truth is that it differs according to the body system of an individual, but generally speaking, if you have been exposed to the virus, you're expected to start noticing some symptoms around 10 days.

The most common symptoms of measles may include a high fever, a runny nose, and a cough. There's also the tendency to experience red eyes and a rash. The rash usually starts on the face and spreads throughout the body.

If you think you have any of the above symptoms, it's possible for you to see a doctor for a test and treatment before it could damage other parts of the body.

How Is Measles Spread?

The major way in which measles can spread is through coughing and sneezing. So, if there's any way you're around someone who has measles, please be very careful because you're at a very higher risk of contracting the virus.

You must also be aware that measles can also be spread through contact with saliva or nasal secretions. So if you're not careful, you could easily catch it by touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after coming in contact with someone who has measles.

It's also important to know that measles can live on surfaces for up to two hours before it can die. If there's any way you're visiting a place where a measles patient just visited, you stand a chance of contracting the virus if carefulness is not applied.

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Periods Before a Measle can Appear

It usually takes about 10 days to two weeks for the measles symptoms to appear after someone has been infected with the virus. That's why I'll suggest you get vaccinated against the virus because it can save your life.

The first thing that you might notice is a fever. This can last for a few days and might be accompanied by a cough, runny nose, and red eyes. Immediately after the fever is vacated from your body, a rash will follow by spreading all over your body.

Always remember to see a doctor if you're suspecting the virus. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics if you do have a secondary infection.

How Can I Know if I Have Measles?

If you suspect being down unusually, have a fever, and notice a rash,
the tendency is that you may likely have measles. But I tell you, don't panic as there are preventive measures and treatments available.

One of the problems with measles is that it can be dangerous, especially to children and pregnant women. So if you are suspecting any symptoms of measles, you don't need to waste more time than to see a doctor. The doctor will surely confirm the diagnosis and help you with proper treatment.

What Is the Treatment for Measles?

If there's any way you or your child may have contracted measles, seek medical attention immediately. measles is not supposed to be overlooked because it's a very dangerous infection. Your doctor will proffer a solution in which he will prescribe antibiotics to get you started with early treatment, In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and also avoiding contact with other people until you're no longer contagious. This will surely go a long way with a quick recovery.

Conclusion

If you or your child start to show any of the above-mentioned symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. With early diagnosis and treatment, One can get a quick recovery. But if left untreated, That could be very dangerous as it may likely lead to pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. So, I suggest you always seek your doctor's concern for early treatment.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/index.html#:~:text=Measles%20is%20an%20acute%20viral,after%20a%20person%20is%20exposed.

https://www.cdc.gov/measles/transmission.html#:~:text=How%20measles%20spreads,mouths%2C%20they%20can%20become%20infected.

https://www.emedihealth.com/child-health/conditions-and-symptoms/measles-treatment