Measles: Highly contagious viral infection in kids

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that was common in children before immunization. The incubation period is about 10 days. At first your child has a hacking cough. Runny nose, red eyes, and fever. After about 2-4 days, flat red or brown blotches appear on the face, and spread to cover the body and limbs. There may be small white spots inside the cheeks. Most children make a good recovery, but measles can lead to ear infections and to complications such as pneumonia and, rarely, inflammation of the brain.

Make an appointment for your child to see your doctor to confirm the diagnosis and get appropriate medical treatment.

PREVENTION
Immunization to protect against measles is given as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Make sure your child is immunized.

MMR IMMUNIZATION
The vaccine is given as an injection, usually into the arm.
Seek further medical advice

Arrange to see your doctor urgently if your child develops :

* A severe cough and/or breathing problems
* Earache or and eye infection
* Vomiting
* Severe headache, excessive drowsiness, and/or seizures

What you can do yourself
Measles is an unpleasant illness and at first your child may feel very unwell. Try the following ot reduce discomfort and distress.

* If your child has a fever, give a painkiller to reduce it (see DRUG REMEDIES). Dress your child in light clothes and put a fan in the room. Offer your child plenty of fluids throughout the day to replace water lost through sweating.

* Make sure your child rests while he or she has a raised temperature.

* Warm drinks will help to soothe a cough.

* Reduce the lighting in the room if your child’s eyes are sensitive to light.

* Warm, moist air helps to soothe air passages and loosen MUCUS. Create a humid
atmosphere by using a vaporizer, putting a damp towel on a radiator, or sitting with your child in a steamy bathroom.

* Your child will be infectious from the first signs of infection until 4 days after the rash appears, and can go back to school after that time if he or she is well and there are no complications from measles.

DRUG REMEDIES
Painkillers Paracetamol or ibuprofen, which are available in various forms, will help to bring down a fever and reduce general discomfort. Your pharmacist will advise which is most suitable for your child.