MEASLES

Measles is a communicable disease caused by a virus called Morbilivirus.It is characterized with fever, cough, rashes etc.Man is the only reservoir of infection and it is transmitted by droplet spread from the secretion of the nose and throat usually 4 days before the appearance of rash. The disease is common in pre-school children and it occur in all seasons more common in winter and spring months. The incubation period is about 8-12 days. During infection some cells are activated and participate in clearance of the virus and development of rash. It is more severe and mortality due to it is higher in the malnourished children. Measles is a self-limiting disease unless it is complicated and death may occur. One-third of the patients with measles die and another one-third are left with severe neurological defects. Fever is controlled by paracetamol and hydrotherapy. Cough help in removing the mucus from the lungs. Respiratory complications are managed by the combination of antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections. Streptococcal and staphylococcal infections are the most common infections following measles. The treatment of measles is essentially symptomatic and supportive. Body and oral hygiene too included in this treatment. The patients are encouraged to give bath to the child. Mouth is washed and teeth are brushed daily. Nutrition of the patient should be maintained by good nourishing diet