Experts have explained the signs and symptoms of measles to watch for after a warning of outbreaks in a number of popular holiday destinations. The health experts at Now Patient have listed the signs and symptoms of measles after reported outbreaks in Europe.
Measles is a highly contagious disease spread through coughing, sneezing and close personal contact with infected persons. The virus can remain active and contagious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours and can be transmitted between infected people from four days after the rash appears, to four days after the rash flares up.
What are the common signs and symptoms of measles?
High fever
Runny nose and cough
Red and watery eyes
Small white spots inside the cheeks
A whole-body rash - usually begins on the face and neck before spreading further
Navin Khosla, Pharmacist at Now Patient said: “The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported measles outbreaks in 17 different European countries, warning holidaymakers to remain vigilant and aware of the signs and symptoms of the virus to lower the risks of the virus spreading further.
"Unvaccinated children are most at risk of contracting the infection, as well as being the most vulnerable to the most extreme complications associated with the virus. Unvaccinated pregnant women and any unvaccinated or non-immune adults are also at risk of becoming infected.
"Symptoms of the virus don’t always appear until 10-12 days after exposure to the infection, therefore increasing the likelihood of individuals returning home from holiday or contact and spreading the virus further afield.
"There is no specific treatment for measles, with the MMR vaccination being the most effective method of avoiding the contraction of the infection. However, if you have measles you should remain hydrated, replacing any fluids lost. Any infections, such as eye and ear infections should be prescribed antibiotics, so be sure to seek advice from a medical professional if these occur. Vitamin A has been highly associated with reducing the number of measles-related deaths, with children being given two doses of the vitamin, 24 hours apart - this can help to reduce damage to eyes, and therefore decrease the risk of developing blindness from the infection. Nevertheless, isolating the infected individual from any individuals at risk of contracting the virus is crucial in stopping the spread.”
