Measles is a very contagious viral illness that can be quite severe. One or two weeks after your child has been exposed, cold like symptoms show up. During this stage the disease is most contagious, although it can spread until the fever and rash are gone, about 5 to 8 days later. Infected children most often pass measles to others through coughing or sneezing. Today though not too many people get measles anymore. Thanks to the vaccine. There is no cure for measles, but you can help your child feel better. Rarely, measles can go on to become a more serious problem like pneumonia. Sometimes measles can trigger Encephalitis (an inflammation of the brain).
Measles and the Symptoms:
First 2 to 3 days
- Very high fever (up to 105 degrees) .
- Cold like symptom, including a runny nose: a dry cough: swollen glands: red, watery eyes, loss of appetite and aching muscles.
A day or two later
- Inside the mouth, painless small gray or white bumps, like grains of salt surrounded by red rings.
In another day
- Small red spots that first appear on the face and the neck. As they spread down the body, they join to form large blotches .
Prevention of Measeles:
- Make sure your child gets the MMR vaccine for measles, mumps and rubella. This shot is given at 12 to 18 months, with booster at 4 to 6 years.
Home remedies for measles:
Some of the common home remedies for measles are:
- Give your child lot of fluids .
- Help your child rest on bed.
- Use a cool-mist humidifier in your child's bedroom.
- If your child's eyes are sensitive to light, darken the bedroom.
- If your child has minor aches or pains, give acetaminophen.
- Keep your child away from others.
