With the recently reported cases of measles, now affecting individuals in 17 states, this particular virus has surpassed Ebola and Influenza as far as media coverage as of late. Measles is a rather acute viral infection, which has been relatively low in number for many
years, in large part due to the vaccine protocol
recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Having cared for children with this infection during my training, and make no mistake –measles is no joke – it is a serious infection that causes significant illness, and it can take a life.
· The AAP and its fellows, your pediatricians, recommend the vaccine for Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (German Measles) for protection against these viruses.
· The MMR vaccine is recommended to be received at 12-15 months of age and again at 4-6 years of age.
· Two MMR vaccines are required by law by age 7 to remain a student in school.
· There is really no significant downside to receiving the MMR vaccine.
A small percentage of recipients (5-15%) may have a fever and a non-contagious rash for 2 days, occurring usually one week later. The issue of the MMR vaccine being related to the Autistic Spectrum Disorder is now anon-issue. Many valid studies have refuted the original concern raised by a British physician, Dr. Wakefield. In fact, The Lancet journal of medicine officially retracted the study from its publication and its archives.
Measles presents with these symptoms:
· Fever, cough, congestion, conjunctivitis, white spots in the mouth (Koplik spots), and a classic pink or red “dotty” rash throughout the body.
· It can also cause pneumonia or encephalitis.
· Patients with measles are quite ill appearing and can easily become dehydrated due to lack of desire to eat or drink.
Treatment is limited to supportive care only. There is no anti-viral medication magic wand. Prevention is the key – vaccination is strongly recommended. No one should hesitate to protect their children with the MMR vaccination, and in so doing protecting others around them.
