What is measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that causes a variety of cold-like symptoms and a characteristic rash. Measles is caused by a virus.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread through the air and can be divided into three main stages: prodromal stage, rash stage, and convalescent stage.

Main symptoms of measles

Prodromal phase: This is the period when measles is most contagious. A variety of symptoms may occur, including fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and spots in the mouth.

Rash: An erythematous rash develops on the back of the neck, under the ears, torso, limbs, hands, and soles.

Recovery phase: The rash gradually disappears, and skin pigmentation returns to normal.

Additionally, patients with measles may develop complications such as respiratory diseases such as bronchopneumonia and croup, diarrhea, and acute encephalitis.

How to prevent measles

1. Immunization: You must get the measles vaccine (MMR). Vaccination is the most effective way to build immunity to measles and prevent infection.
2. Personal hygiene: You must follow personal hygiene rules, such as washing your hands frequently and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
3. Avoid contact with measles patients: People with insufficient immunity to measles have a greater than 90% chance of becoming infected if they come in contact with a patient, so they should avoid contact with the patient.

Would you like to learn about tips for preventing measles when traveling abroad?

• Before travelling, you should make sure you have received two shots of the prophylactic vaccine (MMR). If you have not been vaccinated or are uncertain whether you have been vaccinated, you must visit a medical institution 4-6 weeks before departure and receive two doses, 4 weeks apart.

• While traveling, it is recommended to wear a mask in crowded places, wash your hands frequently, and follow personal hygiene rules such as cough etiquette.

• If you have a fever or rash upon entry, you must immediately notify the quarantine officer.

Measles is highly contagious, so prevention is of utmost importance. We want everyone to get vaccinated and stay safe from measles.