The impact of measles can be severe, leading to complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis and even death, especially in areas with limited access to healthcare services and vaccinations.
Measles Immunization Day strives to mitigate the impact of this preventable disease on children in India and around the world
Measles Vaccination Day is a crucial initiative aimed at protecting children from the highly contagious measles virus. In India, measles continues to pose a significant threat to children's health, affecting numerous children every year. The impact of measles can be severe, leading to complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis and even death, especially in areas with limited access to healthcare services and vaccinations.
By raising awareness and ensuring widespread vaccination coverage, initiatives like Measles Vaccination Day strive to mitigate the impact of this preventable disease on children in India and around the world.
Dr Jeetendra Gandhi, consultant pediatrician and neonatologist at Apollo Clinic, Wanowrie, says: “A significant section of India's population is not vaccinated against measles, a highly contagious viral disease. Some of the symptoms of this virus include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and spots in the mouth. The most vulnerable group, children under five, face the highest morbidity and mortality rates. Complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis also contribute to deaths. “This issue needs to be addressed as India has the second largest population that is not vaccinated against measles.”
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that presents with high fever, eye discharge, cough and rash. Dr Sagar Bhattad, Consultant Pediatric Immunology and Rheumatology, Aster CMI Hospital, opines, “It suppresses the immune system and can lead to serious secondary bacterial infections like pneumonia (lung infection) and diarrhoea. In severe cases, it can cause swelling of the brain or even death. It is essential to treat symptoms such as fever and dehydration with fluids and medications. “Vitamin A supplements and fever reducers are crucial to help fight infections.”
Since there is no medicine for measles, vaccination is very important. Dr Bhattad adds: “The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is given in two doses, usually at 9 months and 18 months. Due to this, the number of cases has reduced drastically. It is very important to ensure regular vaccination against MMR, including the booster dose given at 5 years of age. Consult a doctor for cough/congestion medications for children.”
Treatment of this contagious virus involves controlling symptoms with antipyretics, vitamin A supplements, and ensuring adequate hydration. Vaccination is the cornerstone of measles prevention and highlights the importance of immunizing all children.
