Measles, which is caused by the measles virus, is a highly contagious infection that spreds by droplets. The incubation period is about 2 weeks. Infected children are contagious 4 days before and 4 days after the appearance of the rash. Children with measles have fever, conjunctivitis, coryza, cough, Koplik spots (small white spots on the buccal mucosa) and a generalized erythematyous maculopapular rash. The complications of measles include otitis media, croup, pneumonia, diarrhea and encephalitis.

Diagnosis is clinical.

Measels could be classified as:

1. Severe complicated measles: this classification is considered when there is clouding of the cornea deep or extensive mouth ulcres in a patient who has history of measles during the last three months.

Teatment

Drug treatment:

Measles:the classification of measles is made when there is only measles now or with in the last three months.

Treatment

Non-Drug Treatment: Bed rest and fluid intake. Isolate child from school for 10 days

Drug Treatment

1. Symptomatic: for pyrexia and pain use Paracetamol (For S/E, C/I and Dosage forms, see page 135).

2.Vitamin A, 50,000 IU, for children less than 6 months; 100,000 IU for 6-12 months; 2000,000 IU for greater than 12 months, once per day for two days p.o.

S/E: diarrhea, vomiting, irritability, drowsiness

C/I: renal impairment

D/I: cholestyramine or colestipol reduces its absorption

Dosage forms: capsule, 25,000 IU, 50,000 IU, 100,000 IU; oral suspension, 150,000 IU/ml (concentrate), 50,000 IU/ml: tablet, 50,000 IU, 100,000 IU, 200,00 IU; injection, under 200,000 IU/ml

NB: Prevention is important by active immunization of children > 1 year old who have not had the disease.