Measles is back, and it’s more contagious than many people realize—even more so than Ebola. As cases continue to spread in Texas, Dr. Mary Hope Griffin from Primary Care Partners is here to help you understand the risks, symptoms, and, most importantly, how to protect yourself and your family.
Measles symptoms don’t appear right away. After exposure, it takes 8-12 days before signs show. The first symptoms include watery eyes, runny nose, cough, and fever, which last for about four days. Around day five, a rash appears on the face and neck before spreading to the rest of the body. This disease has no cure and can be dangerous—1 to 3 out of every 1,000 infected people will die. Babies, young children, and those with weakened immune systems are especially at risk.
Because measles spreads through person-to-person contact and the air, it can linger in a room for up to two hours after an infected person leaves. Even before symptoms appear, someone with measles can unknowingly pass it to others. The best way to prevent measles is vaccination. The MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine is safe and highly effective. Children should receive their first dose at 12-15 months and their second dose at 4-6 years old. Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status should check with their doctor.
Although there is no cure, supportive care and Vitamin A (cod liver oil) can help manage symptoms. If you think you or your child may have measles, do not walk into a clinic or hospital unannounced, as this could put others at risk. Instead, call our office first, and we will guide you through the proper protocol for diagnosing and treating potentially infectious diseases.
Measles is preventable, but we must take it seriously. Watch the video for Dr. Griffin’s full explanation, and share this information to help keep our community safe!
