Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through respiratory droplets. It can cause serious complications, particularly in young children and malnourished or unvaccinated individuals, and is preventable through routine immunisation.

• High fever
• Cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• A characteristic blotchy red rash that usually starts on the face and spreads down the body after a few days of fever
• Small white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots) may appear before the rash
• Complications can include pneumonia, diarrhoea, ear infection, and, less commonly, encephalitis

• Caused by the measles virus, spread through airborne droplets or direct contact with infected respiratory secretions.
• Highly contagious, particularly among unvaccinated individuals.
• Risk of severe disease and complications is higher in young children, malnourished children, and those with vitamin A deficiency or weakened immunity.

• Usually a clinical diagnosis based on the characteristic fever, cough, conjunctivitis, and rash, together with a history of exposure or lack of vaccination.
• Laboratory confirmation (such as measles IgM antibody testing) may be used, particularly for outbreak investigation and surveillance.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles; care is mainly supportive, including paracetamol for fever, adequate fluids, and nutrition.

Vitamin A is given to all children diagnosed with measles, as it reduces the risk of severe complications and death, with an additional dose the following day.

Secondary bacterial infections, such as pneumonia or ear infection, are treated with an appropriate antibiotic if they occur.

Children with breathing difficulty, persistent high fever, dehydration, or altered consciousness are referred urgently for hospital-level care.

Suspected measles cases should be reported to health authorities, as measles is a notifiable disease requiring outbreak response.

• Ensure children receive the routine measles-containing vaccine doses on schedule.
• Support supplementary immunisation campaigns during outbreaks.
• Isolate suspected cases where possible to reduce spread, especially in health facilities and schools.
• Ensure adequate vitamin A intake and general nutrition in children.