Measles Introduction
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can cause serious health problems, including pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and death.
The measles virus is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Definition of measles
Measles is a respiratory illness caused by a virus called Morbillivirus. The virus is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms of measles usually appear 10-12 days after exposure to the virus and can last for up to 2 weeks.
Signs and Symptoms
The most common symptoms of measles are:
Fever
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
Rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
Other symptoms of measles can include:
Sore throat
Earache
Diarrhea
Pink eye
Pneumonia
Encephalitis
Etiology
The measles virus is a member of the paramyxovirus family. The virus is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can also be spread through contact with the fluid from an infected person’s rash.
Clinical Manifestation
The clinical manifestation of measles typically follows a predictable course. The first symptoms, such as fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, usually appear 10-12 days after exposure to the virus. These symptoms are followed by a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. The rash typically lasts for 5-6 days.
Diagnostic Evaluation
The diagnosis of measles is usually made based on the patient’s symptoms and history of exposure to the virus. A blood test can be done to confirm the diagnosis.
IG M
IG G
PCR
Throat Swab
Pathophysiology
The virus infects the cells that line the respiratory tract. The virus then spreads to other parts of the body, including the skin, liver, and spleen. The virus causes an immune response that can lead to inflammation and other complications.
Medical Management
There is no specific treatment for measles.
Treatment is supportive and includes rest, fluids, and pain medication.
In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat secondary infections.
Nursing Assessment
The nursing assessment of a patient with measles should include a complete history of the patient’s symptoms, a physical examination, and a review of the patient’s medical history. The nurse should also assess the patient’s vital signs, respiratory status, and fluid status.
Nursing Management
The nursing management of a patient with measles includes providing supportive care, such as rest, fluids, and pain medication. The nurse should also monitor the patient for complications, such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and dehydration.
Nursing Care Plan
The nursing care plan for a patient with measles should include the following interventions:
Provide rest and fluids.
Administer pain medication as needed.
Monitor vital signs.
Monitor respiratory status.
Monitor fluid status.
Educate the patient about the disease and its prevention.
Complications
The most serious complications of measles are pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by the measles virus or by a secondary infection.
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain that can be caused by the Paramixo virus. Death is a rare but serious complication
Preventive Measures
The best way to prevent disease is to get vaccinated.
MMR – the vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from the disease.
Follow-up Care
Patients should be monitored for complications.
They should also be vaccinated against Paramixovirus if they have not been previously vaccinated.