Measles was once the most common disease to have spread worldwide until vaccination was introduced. It is a highly contagious viral disease usually affecting children and although not fatal can become severe if the sufferer is fatigued and is unable to rest and be treated from it. In severe cases the resistance level of the victims lower and poses the danger of giving way to secondary bacterial infections. In some rarer cases encephalitis formation occurs resulting when the virus enters the brain.

What is Measles?

• It is also known as Rubeolla and is characterized by fever, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, and a red rash.

• It is an infection that is caused by a virus known as paramyxovirus of the genus Morbillivirus.

• It is unrelated to German measles.

• Early symptoms of measles include (fever,) muscle sores, headache, eye irritation, malaise, and excessive light sensitivity.

How is it handled?

• Measles vaccine is widely and readily available to help prevent measles

• In the case of infections plenty of rest, proper eating habits, and treatment of symptoms are simply the recommended actions to take.

• The use of antibiotics(consult a physician) are also recommended to prevent other infections while still suffering from measles.

For more information about measles check out this article from MAYOCLINIC.COM.