With the recent Measles outbreak we thought some of your questions may be answered here. What is measles? Measles is a very contagious infection caused by a virus (a germ that can make people sick). Sometimes measles is called “red measles” (or rubeola). It should not be confused with “German measles,” which is another name for rubella. What are the symptoms? • Measles begins with a fever, runny nose, a hacking cough and very red eyes. You may think your child has a cold. • In a few days, a reddish blotchy rash begins around the face and spreads down to the chest, arms and legs. Bright light may cause eye pain. • Measles can cause an ear infection or pneumonia (a serious disease where fluid fills the lungs). • In severe cases, measles can cause swelling of the brain, which is called encephalitis. This can lead to seizures, permanent brain damage, hearing loss, or death. How do measles spread? Measles spreads: • Through direct contact —such as kissing, touching, holding hands or sharing glassware or utensils—with an infected person. If you have the virus, you will have germs in your nose, mouth, eyes, on your skin. By touching other people, you can pass on the virus. • Through the air when a person coughs or sneezes. Droplets from the cough or sneeze may reach another person’s nose or mouth. IF YOUR CHILD HAS NOT BEEN VACCINATED PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO RECEIVE THE IMMUNIZATION ASAP. IF YOU ARE UNSURE IF YOUR CHILD HAS BEEN VACCINATED, PLEASE CALL YOUR PEDIATRICIAN.
Posted on: Fri, 23 Jan 2015 23:39:50 +0000