Measles Measles is a highly contagious,
fever-producing disease caused by a virus, different from
the virus that causes the less serious disease German
measles, or rubella. Measles is characterized by small red
dots appearing on the surface of the skin, irritation of the
eyes (especially on exposure to light), coughing, and a
runny nose. About 12 days after first exposure, the fever,
sneezing, and runny nose appear. Coughing and swelling of
the neck glands often follow. Four days later, red spots
appear on the face or neck and then on the trunk and limbs.
In 2 or 3 days the rash subsides and the fever falls; some
peeling of the involved skin areas may take place. Infection
of the middle ear may also occur. Measles was formerly one of the most
common childhood diseases. Since the development of an
effective vaccine in 1963, it has become much less frequent.
By 1988, annual measles cases in the U.S. had been reduced
to fewer than 3,500, compared with about 500,000 per year in
the early 1960s. No specific treatment for measles
exists. Patients are kept isolated from other susceptible
individuals, usually resting in bed, and are treated with
Ibuprophen, cough syrup, and skin lotions to lessen fever,
coughing, and itching. The disease usually confers immunity
after one attack, and an immune pregnant woman passes the
antibody through the placenta to her fetus. COMMON
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