B05.9

Clinical Causes: Primarily caused by the measles virus, a paramyxovirus transmitted through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes. Close contact with an infected person increases the risk of transmission. Inadequate vaccination or absence of prior immunity significantly raises susceptibility. Living in densely populated areas or settings like schools and healthcare facilities fosters easier spread. Traveling to regions with active measles outbreaks can increase exposure risk.

Key Symptoms: Fever, often high and sudden Cough, which may be dry and persistent Runny nose and nasal congestion Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis) Koplik spots in the mouth—small, white lesions often seen before rash appears Distinctive red rash that typically begins behind the ears and spreads across the face and body Mild to moderate fatigue and malaise Loss of appetite

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis of measles without complications is primarily based on clinical presentation, including characteristic symptoms and rash. Healthcare providers may perform laboratory tests such as blood tests to detect measles-specific IgM antibodies or viral RNA via PCR. A thorough patient history, including exposure risks and vaccination status, supports accurate diagnosis. In some cases, especially during outbreaks, healthcare providers may rely on clinical criteria without laboratory confirmation.

Treatment Protocols: Rest and hydration to help the body recover Fever reducers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage fever and discomfort Humidified air or saline drops to ease cough and sore throat Vitamin A supplementation in some cases, which may help reduce severity in children Monitoring for and preventing secondary bacterial infections Isolation to prevent spreading the virus to others