Contents
Treating Measles: What to Expect and How to Manage Symptoms
Published: Oct 29, 2023
While there's no specific cure for measles, proper treatment can ease symptoms and prevent complications. Understanding the approach to measles care is crucial for patients and caregivers.
Supportive Care
The cornerstone of measles treatment is supportive care. This includes rest, plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce fever and discomfort. A humidifier can help ease cough and sore throat.
Vitamin A Supplementation
Vitamin A can help reduce the severity of measles, especially in children. It's particularly important in areas where vitamin A deficiency is common. Doctors may recommend high-dose vitamin A supplements for two days.
Managing Complications
In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat secondary bacterial infections like pneumonia or ear infections. Severe cases may require hospitalization for intravenous fluids, respiratory support, or treatment of neurological complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically 7-10 days, but fatigue may persist for weeks.
Yes, patients should isolate for 4 days after the rash appears to prevent spread.
Ribavirin may be used in severe cases, but it's not routinely recommended.
Road to Recovery
With proper care, most people recover fully from measles within a few weeks.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles (Rubeola) For Healthcare Providers. https://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/index.html
- World Health Organization. Measles. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/measles
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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