Measles In Children: Symptoms, Treatment And Prevention – You Are Parents
Measles is an infection caused by a virus. She is very contagious. Indeed, it is transmitted in the air when the person coughs or sneezes. It is estimated that almost 90% of people who come into contact with an infected person will contract measles if they are not vaccinated. Additionally, it can be spread through the eyes, mouth, or ears.
Of course, in developed countries, measles usually does not cause more serious problems than general malaise lasting a few days. However, children recover faster than adults. Adults can have more serious complications, hence the importance of the vaccine.
Symptoms of measles in children
We must be vigilant for the appearance of these symptoms. If so, consult your doctor immediately.
Symptoms usually appear 8 to 15 days after exposure to the virus. When it occurs, notify the school so that the rest of the parents can monitor their child’s progress.
- Fever
- Tasks of Koplik. These are small white spots that appear on the inside of the cheeks.
- Cough
- Mucus
- Conjunctivitis
- Muscle pain
- Light sensitivity
- Rashes. These are little red dots. The rash will gradually spread all over the body. It will start with the head and work its way down to the feet.
Complications of measles in children
Although this section deals with complications of measles, if medical recommendations are followed and there is no overexposure to other infections, these should not occur.
The possible complications of measles are:
- Ear infection
- Diarrhea
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- In the most serious case, encephalitis. Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain. It is very dangerous and can have irreversible effects.
Treatment and prevention of measles in children
There is no specific treatment for measles. However, the associated symptoms can be treated. It’s a viral infection. Antibiotics therefore do not work. The pediatrician will recommend medicines to lower your child’s fever. You can also apply an ointment to reduce the itching of the rashes.
Keep your child scratching as little as possible. This can cause wounds that leave scars. It’s complicated, but with a little patience, you can do it. Encourage him and say that in two or three weeks he will be healed. Admittedly, it is a lot of time, but he will have to get used to it.
As for prevention, vaccines are the most effective method. Although still controversial, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends getting vaccinated in good time. It is indeed the most effective form of preventing the said disease.
The vaccine that protects against measles in children is part of the MMR vaccine – measles, mumps, rubella – which is administered in two doses from 12 months.
Advice for parents
Since you cannot have the disease for your child, here are some tips to help them cope:
- Do not give him any medicine without consulting your doctor. It is dangerous without knowing what your child is suffering from. Consult the pediatrician and explain the symptoms.
- Don’t get angry if they scratch their pimples. The itch can be unbearable. This makes it difficult for a child to understand that it is better not to scratch. Be patient with him and try to find remedies to relieve him.
- Make sure you have had measles before or been vaccinated. You won’t be able to help her if you get so sick. Make sure you are in the best possible conditions. If you have any doubts, see your doctor to check your vaccines. If you are not vaccinated or have never had measles, you will need to be extra careful. It is indeed an extremely contagious virus.
We especially recommend that you be understanding with your child. Give him your undivided attention. Often times, the love of parents is all that children need to feel understood and supported.
