Why in news
A measles outbreak in the southwestern U.S. has resulted in the death of a second child.
Nearly 650 people have been infected so far.
Health Secretary emphasized that the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is the most effective way to prevent measles.
Measles
Measles virus is an enveloped, ribonucleic acid virus of the genus Morbillivirus.
Measles is highly contagious, and an infected person will often transmit the virus to over 90% of unprotected close contacts.
The virus infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body.
Measles is a human disease and is not known to occur in animals.
Measles can be entirely prevented through a two-dose vaccine and has been officially eliminated in many countries with advanced healthcare systems.
Treatment:
No specific antiviral treatment exists for measles virus.
Severe complications from measles can be avoided through medical care that ensures good nutrition, adequate fluid intake, and treatment of dehydration.
Prevention
Routine measles vaccination for children, combined with mass immunization campaigns in countries with high case and death rates, are key public health strategies to reduce global measles deaths.
COMMENTS