Measles is a highly contagious disease that causes rashes, itching, red eyes, and more. Unfortunately, a measles outbreak in schools is not uncommon.

The infection can attack the respiratory system, making it highly dangerous since it can cause death. Luckily treating, managing, and preventing measles is relatively straightforward. Here’s everything you must know about measles and its prevention.

What are Measles?

This infectious viral airborne disease can cause rashes, red eyes, and cough if exposed. While measles was a relatively common infection in previous years, it has become a cause for concern today.

This is mainly because it can cause encephalitis (an infection of the brain) or pneumonia. Hence, it can become life-threatening.

This is why the WHO reported over 100,000 deaths of children caused by measles in 2017. The number of measles cases has also been increasing in the United States, specifically in children.

Symptoms of Measles

The symptoms of measles last for up to two weeks. You may also start developing measles ten days after exposure.

Individuals with measles exhibit the following symptoms:

• Red eyes
• Rashes
• Runny nose
• Cough
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Tiredness

How Is Measles Spread?

To understand measles and learn how to prevent it, knowing how the infection is spread is imperative. Unfortunately, measles is highly infectious since it is airborne. An individual can catch measles if the patient coughs or sneezes. The droplets travel in the air and can be inhaled by others.

Direct fluid contact with a measles-infected person can also cause measles. The remnants of the virus can stay on the surface for hours, which can also spread the infection.

Tips for Preventing Measles

Get Vaccinated

By far, the most effective way of preventing measles is to get vaccinated. Children at least a year old can get this vaccine along with adults. The vaccine is administered in two doses and is 97% effective in preventing the symptoms of measles from developing.

Reduce Contact

If you work in an industry that may expose you to an individual infected with measles, you should do everything possible to reduce your contact—for example, wear gloves. You must also wear a face mask since it is an airborne disease.

Don’t Share Personal Items

You must not share your grooming items, cooking utensils, toothbrush, and drinking glass with an infected person since that can cause the spread of disease.

Practice Good Hygiene

Another way of preventing measles is through practicing good hand hygiene. You should wash your hands after using the bathroom. Avoid touching your face, nose, and mouth without washing them first.

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This way, you can live a healthy and stress-free life. For more information and to learn about eligibility, visit our website and speak to our experts today.