Since the beginning of 2015, the United States has seen 141 cases of measles in over 17 states. While this may not seem like a lot, experts consider it an outbreak. Consider this: since 2001, only three years had more cases in an entire year. In 2014, over 600 cases were documented, the most since 2000. This year, we’re already at one-sixth that total, and the year has just begun.
“Many parents have asked me if they should be concerned about measles,” says Dr. Viswatej Avutu, resident at Brigham and Women’s Family Care Associates at Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital. “I tell them, the best defense is prevention, and also knowing the signs and symptoms.”
Dr. Avutu explains the things every parent needs to know about measles:
Measles is caused by a virus. One infected person can infect up to 18 more people. This is because the virus can be spread from person to person even before symptoms have appeared. Even worse, the virus is spread easily through infected droplets (from a sneeze or cough) in the air and on objects (like toys, doorknobs, chairs and so on). Unvaccinated children are some of the people at highest risk for catching measles.
The symptoms of measles can be vague. The symptoms of measles generally start as a fever, feeling tired and not wanting to eat. These symptoms are quickly followed by red eyes, a cough and a runny nose. A rash generally follows, first starting in the face and spreading throughout the body. If this sounds like a lot of other viruses, that’s because many of the symptoms are similar to other common childhood infections. Your pediatrician can look for certain things that can be unique to measles.
Vaccinate. Vaccination is the number one way to prevent measles. Most of the children affected in recent outbreaks were not fully vaccinated, including some infants who were too young to get the vaccine. The vaccine is bundled together with other vaccines (measles-mumps-rubella, sometimes including varicella), which means less needle-sticks for your little one. The vaccine is given in two parts: the first between 12 and 15 months and the second at four to six years. If your child missed these, they can still get both shots (they need to be separated by four weeks). Adults who never got the vaccine should get it as well. It is never too late to prevent measles!
Were you exposed? If your child was exposed to someone diagnosed with measles, see a doctor as soon as you can. If it’s within 72 hours, you can get the measles vaccine. If it’s between 72 hours and six days, you may receive the measles immunoglobulin, a chemical that fights the virus itself. Your pediatrician will be able to advise you on your best option to help prevent or reduce the severity of the disease.
The treatment is supportive. Because measles is a virus, an antibiotic (which fights bacteria) will not help. Instead, care will be focused on decreasing fevers, making sure your child is well hydrated, preventing the spread of the illness to other people, and treating any complications that may develop. These complications include ear infections, lung infections (pneumonia) and, in rare cases, brain infections (encephalitis) and even death. This is why it so important to prevent measles.
Should I see my doctor? If you’re at all concerned that your child may have measles, you should contact your pediatrician as soon as you can. Because measles can resemble a lot of other viruses, talking with a pediatrician can be very helpful. In the best case, the doctor can rule out measles and you’ll be worry free. In the unfortunate case that your child has measles, your child can quickly get the care that he or she needs.
Remember, with prevention and early treatment, you can help stop the spread of measles and possibly save the lives of others.
Does your child need a pediatrician? The physicians at Brigham and Women’s Family Care Associates at Brigham at Women’s Faulkner Hospital are accepting new pediatric patients. To make an appointment, contact us Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, at 617-983-7025. Appointments are available in English and Spanish.
Reviewed by Dr. Colleen Monaghan, Medical Director, Brigham and Women’s Family Care Associates at Brigham at Women’s Faulkner Hospital.
