Measles: A Preventable Crisis - LPNI
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Measles: A Preventable Crisis
LPNI Health Topic March 2019
Measles: A Preventable Crisis
Measles is a highly contagious childhood viral infection. Even today with a safe and effective vaccine, it remains a significant cause of death in young people globally, especially children under age 5. It is recommended that children receive two doses of the measles vaccine which is combined with mumps and rubella (MMR). The first dose at 12 to 15 months and again between 4 – 6 years. Older children and adults are advised on an individual basis.
Measles, also called rubeola, is transmitted by nasal and oral droplets from an infected individual. Signs and symptoms appear 10 – 14 days after exposure. Symptoms typically begin with a fever and may include persistent cough, runny nose, inflamed eyes (conjunctivitis), diarrhea, and sore throat with tiny white spots inside the mouth. A skin rash develops several days later. This rash generally begins on the face and gradually spreads downward. The virus infection follows sequential stages over a period to 2 – 3 weeks.
An individual is contagious for approximately eight days, starting four days before the rash appears and ending when the rash has been present for four days. Infected droplets can land on a surface and remain contagious for several hours. About 90 percent of susceptible individuals exposed to the virus will develop measles.
Severe complications occur more frequently in poorly nourished children, especially those deficient in vitamin A. Complications may include bacterial ear infection, bronchitis, pneumonia, dehydration, encephalitis and even death. In addition, measles during pregnancy can cause preterm labor, low birth weight and even maternal death.
Currently there is a measles crisis in the Philippines. In the last month, 70 deaths were reported mainly in children. During the first five weeks of 2019, the United States has confirmed 101 individual cases of measles in 10 states. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), worldwide cases of measles increased by about 50 percent last year. The outbreaks have been blamed on a backlash against vaccinations and misinformation. Despite evidence disproving a 1998 claim that linked the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine to autism, lingering doubt and skepticism remain along with the ability to share misinformation on social media. “Vaccine hesitancy” has been added to WHO’s list of top health threats.
As parish nurses we are in a unique position of trust. We can listen and validate the doubts and concerns of parents on vaccinating their children. But we have the opportunity and obligation to share scientific based evidence and recommendations.
Submitted by: Carol Broemmer, RN, MA; LCMS Missouri District Parish Nurse Representative cbroemmer@charter.net