How measles is transmitted.

ORANJESTAD— Measles is a highly contagious viral disease easily transmitted from person to person. 

For some people, measles infection can cause serious complications and even death.

A person infected with measles can infect 12 to 18 people at once.

Measles affects the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body. 

Symptoms include:

  • Fever that persists;
  • Coughing;
  • Runny nose;
  • Small white spots in the mouth;
  • A rash that starts on the face and spreads over the entire body.

Measles is transmitted from person to person through the air or a surface. When coughing or sneezing, a person releases droplets that float in the air and then fall onto a surface. When the droplets are in the air, a person can inhale them through the nose, pick them up from a surface with the hand, and bring them to the mouth, nose, or eyes. A person is contagious when symptoms begin (4 days before the rash appears) until four days after the rash appears.

Some things can be done to reduce the risk of transmitting or getting infected with measles.

  • Cough or sneeze into paper or your elbow;
  • Throw used paper into the trash immediately;
  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water;
  • Do not share cups, knives, forks, napkins, clothing, or bedding.

Measles can cause serious complications if it spreads to other body parts such as the lungs and brain. Complications that can occur include

  • Pneumonia;
  • Meningitis;
  • Blindness;
  • Ear infection.

Unvaccinated children, pregnant women, or people with weakened immune systems are most vulnerable to complications.

Your health is your responsibility; take steps to protect yourself from measles. 

For more information, such as our Facebook page, Directie Volksgezondheid DVG Aruba, follow us on Instagram at directie_volksgezondheid_aruba, visit our website at www.dvg.aw, call us at 5224200, or email us at service@dvg.aw.
 

Measles