Measles is a contagious respiratory illness that causes a red rash to appear on the skin. Measles can be very serious, especially in children who are younger than five years of age.
CAUSES
This condition is caused by a virus called rubeola. It can spread from one person to another through droplets released into the air when a person with the condition talks, coughs, or sneezes. Children can get this condition by breathing in these droplets or by touching a surface where the infected droplets fell and then touching their mouth or nose. Infected air droplets are contagious for two hours.
RISK FACTORS
Children can get this condition if they:
Are older than six months.
Have not had the condition before.
Have not had the …show more content…
Do not give your child aspirin because of the association with Reye syndrome.
Keep all follow-up visits as told by your child's health care provider. This is important.
Keep your child away from others until four days after the rash appears. This helps prevent others from getting measles.
Be aware that measles cases are often reported to a public health agency. You may be contacted by a public health department and asked questions about how your child got infected.
PREVENTION
Measles can be prevented with vaccines. Children who have had measles before cannot get it again and do not need a vaccine. Babies younger than six months usually do not need a vaccine because they have immunity from their mothers. Children who are exposed to measles and did not receive a vaccine or have not had measles before may be able to get a vaccine or antibody shot within 6 days of exposure.
SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE IF:
Your child has ear pain or drainage.
Your child has a headache.
Your child is breathing rapidly or strangely.
Your child has chest pain.
Your child has shortness of