Measles is a highly contagious viral infection. The person with measles is still contagious during the first four days. Generally, this disease is caught once.
Measles is spread by droplets from coughing or by direct contact with nasal secretions of the patient.
Symptoms include fever, swollen eyes, coughing, runny nose and vomiting. Small red spots appear first on the face and whole body. Often, the patient has itch.
The patient must drink a lot and rest. Antibiotics are used only when there is bacterial infection.
Several countries offer the vaccine against measles. The greatest number of fatal cases of measles are located in countries where the vaccine is not widespread.
A complication of measles can occur seven years after. The incubation period can last several years. This complication is called 'meningo-encephalitis of measles' and is fatal after a year or two.
24 avril 2010
| The text above is for information purposes only. Only a doctor can diagnose a disease. No treatment (medication or scheme) should be undertaken without consulting a health professional. |