WHO Warns of Measles Risks for Children: Symptoms and Prevention Measures Explained
Measles poses serious risks to children. WHO outlines symptoms and prevention strategies to combat this highly contagious disease.
New Delhi, October 22 (Daily Kiran) : Measles is an extremely contagious disease that can have severe consequences for children. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about the symptoms and preventive measures associated with this viral infection. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. Children under five years old are particularly vulnerable to severe complications from measles.
According to the WHO, symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure to the measles virus. Initially, these may resemble a common cold or mild fever. However, they can escalate quickly. Key symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the face and neck before spreading to the rest of the body. White spots may also appear inside the cheeks. Typically, the rash develops three to five days after the onset of initial symptoms.
Measles is not just limited to fever and rashes. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia, ear infections, severe diarrhea, dehydration, and even brain swelling. There is also a risk of vision loss in some instances.
Children who are malnourished, have vitamin A deficiencies, or possess weakened immune systems face a higher risk of complications. Additionally, pregnant women contracting measles can pose dangers to both themselves and their unborn children.
The WHO reported that in 2024, an estimated 95,000 people died from measles globally, with the majority being children under five who were either unvaccinated or inadequately vaccinated.
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles. It is crucial for children to receive two doses of the measles vaccine, as the first dose may not provide sufficient immunity for all.
Parents should seek immediate medical attention if their child experiences difficulty breathing, excessive lethargy, severe dehydration, or other serious symptoms. There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles; management focuses on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications.
