Measles signs and symptoms

ORANJESTAD—When a person comes into contact with the measles virus, the first symptoms usually appear between 7 and 14 days after contact.

Measles affects the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body. The first symptoms last between 4 and 7 days and include:

  • Runny nose;
  • Fever;
  • Cough;
  • Red, watery eyes ;
  • Small white spots (Koplik spots) appear inside the mouth two or three days after symptoms begin.

3 to 5 days after symptoms begin, a rash usually starts on the face and neck and then spreads over the entire body. The rash lasts, in most cases, around five to six days before disappearing.

Complications that may occur are:

  • Pneumonia;
  • Meningitis;
  • Blindness;
  • Ear infection;
  • Severe diarrhea with dehydration.

Most deaths as a result of measles are due to complications related to the disease.
Anyone who is not vaccinated or those who have been vaccinated and have not developed immunity can be infected.

  • Unvaccinated children;
  • Citizens with weak or compromised immunity;
  • Pregnant women are most at risk for developing complications.

If a pregnant woman gets measles during her pregnancy, this can be very dangerous for the mother and can result in premature birth for the baby. For this reason, it is advisable for all women planning to become pregnant to take the measles vaccine before becoming pregnant. You can not receive this vaccine during pregnancy.

Your health is your responsibility; take action to protect yourself against measles.

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Measles signs and symptoms.