Question 1

what are measles? why was it a threat to children in the 1950's?

Accepted Answer

The measles virus: This is one of many viral diseases that caused epidemics around the world and killed a significant percentage of its victims. It has been credited with decimating the native american population in the US after arriving with the Spanish. After the measles vaccine was developed, the frequency declined. It is still deadly and still occurring in the US, more now that some refuse vaccines.

Question 2

what to do for measles?

Accepted Answer

Tender loving care: There is no cure for measles [virus is too smart for us]. Do things to make yourself feel better while you wait for your body to kick out the virus. Take Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for fever or muscle aches. No aspirin! call your doc [especially for babies]. Watch out for: ear pain, croup, diarrhea, severe cough/shortness of breath [pneumonia], lethargy/confusion [big deal brain infection].

Question 3

can you die from measles?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately: As many as 1 out of 2000 infected people may die from measles infections which can cause serious pneumonia or encephalitis ( a brain infection). This can be minimized by proper immunizations. Get the shot.

Question 4

in what ways is measles spread?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory route: Measles is thought to spread via the respiratory route -- so inhalation of respiratory droplets from an infected person can lead to infection. It is an extremely contagious disease, as an infected person may spread the virus up to 7 days prior to the onset of symptoms and 3-4 days following the onset of symptoms. You can prevent yourself from infection with the MMR (mumps measles rubella) vaccine.

Question 5

what are the symptoms of measles?

Accepted Answer

Fever, cough, rash: Measles is a viral illness that includes symptoms of fever, rash, cough, runny nose and conjunctivitis (red eyes).

Question 6

were symptoms of measles in the 1890s the same as symptoms of measles in the 1990's?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Yes but in the 1890's more people died from the measles than in the 1990's due to improved medical care. Measles is not a good virus to catch so get vaccinated.

Question 7

how contagious is measles?

Accepted Answer

Extremely: Measles is transmitted via the respiratory route and an infected person can infect others up to 7 days prior to showing symptoms and up to 3-4 days after the onset of symptoms. It is important to protect yourself against this infection with the the MMR (mumps, measles and rubella) vaccination.

Question 8

what is the cure for measle in children?

Accepted Answer

Comfort care: Measles is a viral illness common in unvaccinated populations.  The illness runs thru its stages and recovery is generally complete. A portion will have complications;ear ; lung infection that require rx, a few may develop life threatening encephalitis.In limited studies gamma globulin infusions can help the worst symptoms improve.Most will heal with suportive care.

Question 9

is measles related to shingles ?

Accepted Answer

No: Both are caused by a virus, but not the same virus.

Question 10

can my 8 month baby have measles?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Please schedule an appointment virtually with a pediatrician, including a Healthtap pediatrician. You may upload a photo of the rash to an inbox consultation. Measles typically is associated with fever and nasal symptoms.

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Were symptoms of measles in the 1890s the same as symptoms of measles in the 1990's?

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How contagious is measles?

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Is measles related to shingles ?

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Can my 8 month baby have measles?

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