Measels

Question 1

For measles, state:

- The type of infection and incubation period

Answer 1

• Highly contagious paramyxovirus infection

* Incubation period: 8-12 days (rash develops in 14 days)

Question 2

For measles, state:

- How it is spread

Answer 2

• Usually spread by droplets coughed or sneezed into the air by an infected person

Question 3

For measles, state:

• Prodromal signs and symptoms (5)
• General signs and symptoms (2)

Answer 3

Prodromal phase:
• Malaise
• Fever
• Cough
• Oral signs
• Keratoconjunctivitis

Followed by:
• Blotchy red rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body
• Lasts for 4 - 7days

Question 4

For measles, state:

- Oral signs and symptoms, including the prodromal phase (3)

Answer 4

• Prodromal phase: precedes the trash by up to 4 days
• Small, white papules surrounded by an erythematous margin appear. This is known as Kolpik’s spots
• Covers the buccal mucosa
Healing of oral lesions is uneventful

Question 5

For measles, state:

• Vaccination as prevention (2)
• Treatment (5)

Answer 5

Vaccination:
• Vaccine (MMR) for children 12 months of age
• A second dose (MMRV) at 18 months of age

Treatment:
• Keep child at home until they are no longer infectious (i.e.at least 4 days after rash starts)
• No specific treatment
• Rest
• Maintain fluid uptake
• Symptomatic care