In Maihar, Madhya Pradesh, 17 have been suspected of having
measles
, and two children have passed away. According to a health authority, this has led to the three-day closure of all
schools
in eight villages. A medical team has been sent to stop the illness from spreading.
According to LK Tiwari, chief medical and health officer, the two children, one of whom was seven years old, died on February 14 and 16.
The district collector has ordered the closure of all public and private schools in the impacted villages in response to a report, and he has also asked for an inspection of the surrounding areas within a five-kilometer radius. Additionally, the collector has made it illegal for kids to get together in the impacted neighborhoods. The youngsters who have contracted the virus have had samples taken from them and submitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Bhopal to be examined. In addition, a World Health Organization delegation is scheduled to tour the impacted towns today.
What is measles?
Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, is caused by the measles virus (MeV), primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets from infected individuals. The virus can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for several hours.
Common symptoms of measles include:
Fever: Measles typically begins with a high fever, often exceeding 101°F (38.3°C).
Rash: A characteristic red, blotchy rash usually appears around 3-5 days after the onset of fever. The rash typically starts on the face and spreads down the body, including the trunk, arms, and legs.
Cough: Measles can cause a persistent cough, often accompanied by nasal congestion and runny nose.
Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the eyes (conjunctivitis) may occur, leading to redness, sensitivity to light, and watery eyes.
Sore Throat: Many individuals with measles experience a sore throat, making swallowing painful.
Malaise: Generalized feelings of fatigue, weakness, and malaise are common, often preceding the onset of rash and fever.
Koplik’s Spots: Small white spots with bluish centers (Koplik’s spots) may appear inside the mouth on the inner cheek lining, typically preceding the onset of rash by 1-2 days.
Complications caused by measles:
Pneumonia: Measles can lead to severe respiratory complications, including pneumonia, which is a leading cause of measles-related deaths.
Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) is a rare but serious complication of measles, occurring in approximately 1 in 1,000 cases.
Ear Infections: Measles increases the risk of middle ear
infections
(otitis media), which can cause ear pain and temporary hearing loss.
Prompt diagnosis and appropriate medical care are essential to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and reduce the spread of measles within communities. Vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles and its complications.
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