Measles
A viral skin condition caused by a single stranded, enveloped RNA virus with 1 serotype. It belongs to paramyxoviridea family and humans are the only natural host of measles virus. It has incubation period of 6-19 days and mode of transmission is via respiratory droplets. Prodromal clinical features of 1-3 days include Cough, Coryza(runny nose), Conjunctivitis and Koplik's spots(small white spots surrounded by erythema on buccal mucosa). The Koplik's spots are pathognomonic of measles. Generally maculopapular rash develops on body starting from head then spreading downwards. Rash fades in the same manner. Most common complication is otitis media(middle ear infection). Pneumonia, Encephalitis has also been reported. This disease is preventable via vaccination of MMR(measles, mumps and rubella). It is a live attenuated vaccine given at 12-15 months after birth. Management of measles is basically supportive. Vitamin A is also given. Normal human Immunoglobulin is given within 6 days of exposure to effectively abort an attack of measles patients who are either immune compromised, non immune pregnant women or non immune children of less than 3 years of age.
