Measles
Context: Measles, once infecting over 90% of children and causing high hospitalization and death rates, has seen a dramatic global decline in mortality due to widespread vaccination efforts since the 1960s.
Important Pointers:
Measles: A highly contagious and serious viral disease, primarily spread through the air and direct contact.
Causative Agent: Caused by a virus from the Paramyxovirus family, infecting the respiratory tract before spreading systemically.
Transmission: Spread via airborne droplets; highly infectious with almost universal childhood infection before vaccines.
Symptoms – Early Phase: High fever 10–14 days after exposure, followed by runny nose, cough, red eyes, and Koplik spots.
Symptoms – Rash Phase: A spreading rash appears on the face and neck and reaches extremities, lasting about 5–6 days.
Treatment: No specific antiviral treatment; managed with nutrition, fluids, and Vitamin A supplements.
High-Risk Groups: Unvaccinated children and pregnant women are most vulnerable to severe complications and death.
Vaccine Discovery: The first effective measles vaccine was developed by John Enders in 1963.
Gavi Alliance Role: Gavi, launched in 2000, ensured vaccine access to vulnerable children in poorer regions.
Current Coverage: Today, over 80% of infants worldwide receive the measles vaccine annually.