Measles

Measles





Measles (Rubeola) is a highly contagious acute viral infection of children, characterized by Fever, Cough, Coryza, Conjunctivitis, eruptions (Koplik’s spots) on the buccal and labial mucosa, and a spreading mucopapular cutaneous rash.

Measles (or Rubeola) is a highly contagious viral Infection that starts in the Respiratory System, spreading through the air from Respiratory droplets and small aerosol particles. It begins with a slight Feverishness, cold in the head, running of the Eyes, and dry Cough, but on the fourth (4th) day from the onset of the malady, rashes appears on the body (First noticed on the face and the neck). After five days of rash when the Fever continues to haunt the patient, it starts peeling off.

Diarrhea sometimes appears but generally nine (9) days after the onset of the disease, the patient is well, the temperature goes down to normal and the appearance of the body back to its original condition.

• Measles rarely strikes adults, but if it does, it leaves them prostrated for quite some time.

• It is more common in warm than in cold weather.








measles

Types of Measles



1) Atypical Measles – It occurs in people who received Measles vaccine between 1963 and 1967, where exposer to Measles causes symptoms such as high Fever, rash, and sometimes pneumonia.

2) Modified Measles – It occurs in people who have been given post-exposure immunoglobulin (or Infants who still have some passive immunity), its typically milder than a regular case of Measles.

3) Hemorrhagic Measles – It causes symptoms (such as high Fever, seizures) and bleeding into the Skin and mucus membranes.

measles

Measles vs Rubella



• Measles and rubella are actually caused by two (2) different viruses.

Measles is caused by the Rubeola Virus, while Rubella is caused by the Rubella Virus.

Rubella isn’t as contagious as Measles (however it can cause serious complications if a woman develops the Infection in Pregnancy).

Measles and rubella are both caused by viruses, can be spread through the air from Coughing and sneezing, cause Fever and a distinctive rash, occur only in humans.

• Both Measles and rubella are included in the Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and Measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccines.













Causes of Measles

• Its caused by Infection with a virus from the paramyxovirus family.
• Measles can be spread by physical contact or through the air via Respiratory droplets.
• An infected person can release the virus into the air when they Cough or sneeze.

People at Risk for Measles

The risk of complications is higher in the following groups:
• Children under 5 years old.
• Adults over 20 years old.
• Pregnant women.
• People with a weakened Immune System.
• Individuals who are malnourished.
• People with a Vitamin A deficiency.



Characteristics of Measles

Fever
• Red Eyes with light sensitivity
• Runny nose
• dry and sometimes severe Cough
• White spots (koplik’s spots) on the inside of the cheeks
• Red rash (2 days)
• Brownish, bronzy rash (3-4 days)

Symptoms of Measles

Its generally First appear within 10-12 days of exposure to the virus.
Cough
Fever
• Runny nose
• Red Eyes
• Sore throat
• White spots inside the mouth

Incubation period for Measles

• The incubation period of an infectious disease is the time that passes between exposure and when symptoms develop.
• The incubation period for Measles is between 10-14 days.
• After the initial incubation period, one may begin to experience non-specific symptoms (such as Fever, Cough, and runny nose).
• The rash will begin to develop several days later.
• It’s important to remember that you can still spread the Infection to others for 4 days prior to developing the rash.

Common Complications for Measles

• Ear Infection.
Bronchitis.
• Croup
• Severe Diarrhea
• Blindness
Vomiting
Eye Infection
Respiratory tract Infections (such as laryngitis-larynx-diseases and Bronchitis).
• Difficulty breathing.
• Febrile seizures

Rare Complications Risk Factors for Measles

Pregnancy complications (such as miscarriage or preterm labour).
• Sub-acute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE, a rare degenerative condition of the Nervous System that develops years after Infection and can affect 2/100,000 people).
Hepatitis.
• Encephalitis (an inflammation of the brain that may occur soon after Measles [or several years later], affecting around 1/1,000 patients with Measles).
• Thrombocytopenia (or low platelet count, affects the blood’s ability to clot).
• Squint (Eye nerves and Eye muscles may be affected).
Neuritis (an Infection of the optic nerve that can lead to vision loss).
• Heart complications.
• Other Nervous System complications (including toxic encephalopathy, retrobulbar Neuritis, transverse myelitis, and ascending myelitis).









measles

Home Remedies for Measles



• The child should be kept in an airy, semi-darkened room so that sunlight does not harm the Eyes as Measles weakens the Eye tissues.

• The child may be given only Orange Juice and Water to drink and no Milk.

• The child should be kept on an all-fruit diet for at least 3 days (when the Fever is down and the temperature comes back to the normal).

• Permit normal diet (only when the effects of the malady and his Tongue is clear).





Measles (Rubeola) Treatment Actions





measles

Measles (Rubeola) Treatment Actions



The herbal contribution to the treatment of Measles is based on alleviation of symptomatic distress.

Diaphoretics help ease Fever and Diaphoretic Green Teas (such as Catnip, Yarrow., and Linden) are especially appropriate.

Anti-pruritics (such as Chickweed) is particularly effective and will help relieve itching.

Demulcent Expectorants (such as Coltsfoot, Mullein, and Liquorice) help with both the Cough and the sore throat. If a stronger remedy is prefered, use White Horehound.

• Measles vaccine (given within 72 hours of exposure).
• Immunoglobulin (a dose of immune Proteins taken within 6 days of exposure)













measles

Convalescent Recovery (Good Nutrition)


Bitter tonics (such as Gentian)
• Persistent Cough (White Horehound )
• Relieve itching (Dabbing distilled Witch Hazel on itchy Skin)
Eyestrain due to photosensitivity is common, so the child should rest in a darkened room.
• A wash made of Eyebright or a German Chamomile compress (German Chamomile) will ease the discomfort.

Eyebright Eyewash
• Infuse 1/2 oz. of dried Eyebright in 1 cup of Water.
• It is especially important to Strain well to ensure that no particles remain in the infusion.
• When comfortably warm for the Eyes, it is ready to use.
• This herbal wash is to be used only once.





















Measles (Rubeola) Remedies from Food

Barley – Drinking Barley Water flavoured with some sweetened Almond Oil oftenLY gives immense relief when suffering from Measles.

Bitter Gourd LeavesBitter Gourd leaves juice, mixed with Turmeric root and Raw Honey is potent in fighting Measles.

CoconutCoconut is rich in anti-oxidants, where Coconut Water can serve as an effective drink to tackle Measles and Coconut flesh speeds up recovery process.

Cinnamon – Its used as a prophylactic agent, to control German Measles (also beneficial in the treatment of several other ailments, including Asthma, paralysis, uterus disorders and excessive menstruation).

GarlicGarlic is beneficial when it comes to treating Measles the natural way.

Indian Gooseberry – Take a shower in indian Gooseberry rinsed Water for best way to get rid of burning and itching sensation during Measles.

Lemon Juice – Consumption of 15-25ml of Lemon juice squeezed in Water is a perfect natural therapy.

Licorice – Consume half a teaspoon of Licorice root ground into powder along with a little drop of Raw Honey can effectively cure Measles.

Nannyberries – An infusion of Nannyberries leaves can be used to treat Measles. Nannyberries are enriched with Vitamins, Minerals and other nutrients that are essential for maintaining a healthy, vibrant, natural glowing and beautiful Skin. The berries tend to detoxify body, thus resulting in smoother, softer and more beautiful Skin.

SesameSesame leaves and roots decoction has been found to be effective against chicken pox and Measles (anti-viral).

Turmeric – Its a valuable Herbal Remedy for Measles. Turmeric roots are dried in the sun and ground to a fine powder, then mixed with a few drops of Raw Honey and the juice of few Bitter Gourd leaves can be taken by those suffering from Measles. Bitter Gourd leaves juice, mixed with Turmeric root and Raw Honey is potent in fighting Measles. A mix of equal amount of powdered Tamarind seeds and Turmeric is an efficient healer of Measles. A dose of 350-425g is given thrice (3) daily to the patient.







Measles (Rubeola) Remedies from Herbs

African Wild PotatoAfrican Wild Potato deep penetrating ointment is beneficial to the treatment of symptoms associated with Skin conditions (such as Eczema, Acne, scars, Burns, rashes, bed sores, warts, Stretch Marks, sunburn, insect bites and dry Skin). It is helpful in curing warts and transmittable ailments like chicken pox and Measles.

Benzoin Gum – It possesses the healing properties through its contents such as benzoic acid, benzyl benzOate and benzaldehyde which cures the Skin ailments (such as Wounds and scars). It has disinfectant, anti-bacterial, Vulnerary, germicidal, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties which assist in curing cuts, Acne, Eczema, Skin irritation, dermatitis, Wounds, sores, chapped Skin, scars and Psoriasis. Benzoin Resin Essential Oil Anti-Inflammatory properties relieves inflammation associated with Measles, eruptions, pox and rashes.

Bistort – It is a good Herbal Remedy for Skin Infection, Skin eruptions, Measles, and Burns. Its used externally for the treatment of inflamed mucous membranes and Skin disorders, Burns, sore nipples, vaginal discharge, Hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

BurdockBurdock dried root can be taken internally as an infusion, or used externally as a wash. Burdock fresh root polyacetylenes have an Anti-Biotic effect. Burdock seeds are used to remove toxins in Fevers and Infections (such as Mumps and Measles).

Copaiba – It is used externally, in the treatment of a range of Skin problems. Copaiba is useful for Skin problems (such as Wounds, rashes, dermatitis, bug bites, Boils, Acne and Psoriasis), due to it has topical analgesic (pain-reliever) and Anti-Inflammatory action.

Corn mint – Its potent for conditions such as Measles. Corn mint various parts is effective in healing head injuries and Skin ulcers, thereby useful to treating sores and rashes on the Skin, sore throat, Mouth Ulcers, and distension and oppression in the chest and the hypochondrium.

Devil’s Club – Devil’s club inner bark infusion used externally as a poultice (or Wound dressing or rubbed over sore) for sores (swellings, cuts, Boils, Burns, and external Infections). Its inner bark decoction can be beneficial to the treatment of Measles.

DittanyDittany bark powder is used (both internally and externally) in the treatment of Skin diseases (especially scabies, Eczema and Psoriasis), Measles, arthritic pain and Jaundice.

EchinaceaEchinacea is a primary remedy for Infection and effective against bacterial and viral attacks, septicemia, Boils, Skin eruptions, Wounds and Arthritis. Its applied to the Skin to treat Boils, Gum disease, abscesses, Skin Wounds, ulcers, Burns, Eczema, Psoriasis, sun-related Skin damage, herpes simplex, Yeast Infections, bee stings, snake and mosquito bites, and Hemorrhoids.

Elder – Its flowers can be used in the beginning of eruptive diseases like Measles and chickenpox as the Sweating brings out the rash quickly so healing can begin.

Grains of Paradise – Grain of paradise can be used for preparing Herbal Remedy for treating infectious Skin diseases (such as Measles, chickenpox and smallpox) and dermatological care. The herbs have been used to treat the diseases such as Measles and Leprosy.

HennaHenna leaves decoction can be used for aseptic cleaning and healing of Wounds, thus many Skin disorders (such as Eczema, Fungal Infections, injuries, Wounds, Burns, Boils, Acne, herpes, and scabies) are treated with it. Its leaves are useful for the treatment of poliomyelitis and Measles by the Yoruba tribe of South Western Nigeria.

Jing JieJing Jie has Anti-Inflammatory benefits that relieve Skin itch, beneficial to Skin irritations (such as Acne, Eczema and Psoriasis) and treating Skin ulcers. Its valued as an aromatic and warming herb, thus taken to alleviate Skin conditions (such as Boils and itchiness).

KudzuKudzu has Anti-Inflammatory effects, due to its ability to decrease prostaglandin E2 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha release, both of which are involved in inflammatory process. Kudzu in combination with sheng ma (Cimicifuga foetida) is frequently used as a remedy for Measles.

LantanaLantana Essential Oil, leaves and stems are externally used (as a wash) for the treatment of various Skin diseases (such as Eczema, Measles, chicken pox, scabies and Skin fungus). Its fast-acting anti-septic and Anti-Microbial properties is beneficial at healing Wounds, Skin itches, and externally for Leprosy and scabies. Its an Astringent and a potent anti-septic herb, the natural Herbal Remedy can then be used to clean and disinfect Minor Wounds.

LomatiumLomatium root volatile oil factions has Anti-Biotic activity and a powerful, non-toxic, viro-static effect against Colds (Flu) viruses, the trachoma virus, the Lansing Polio viruses, and numerous other viruses (about 62 Strains and species of bacteria, molds and fungi).

MarjoramMarjoram Essential Oil anti-viral effects and high amount of carvacrol content, potentiate it as an adequate remedy for viruses such as Common Cold, Mumps and Measles. Anti-bacterial properties of Marjoram is useful in treating and promoting fast healing of Wounds. Marjoram’s anti-viral effects and high amount of carvacrol content, potentiate it as an adequate remedy for viruses such as Common Cold, Mumps and Measles. Anti-bacterial properties of Marjoram is useful in treating and promoting fast healing of Wounds.

Myrrh – Its Essential Oil inhibits microbial growth, preventing any ailment resulting from microbial Infection (such as Fever, food Poisoning, Cough & cold, Mumps, Measles, pox and Wound Infections).

Neem Leaves – Its leaves anti-viral and anti-septic properties, give relief from itching rash, when added to hot bathing Water. Bathe the patient with the same Water for at least 20 minutes for best outcome.

PatchouliPatchouli Essential Oil quick healing properties reduce/eradicates the scars and marks which are left by Wounds, Boils, Acne, Measles, Boils and pox, and promotes the healing process of cuts and Wounds. It provides the young, healthy and vibrant Skin.

PulsatillaPulsatilla anti-bacterial properties is quite beneficial in treating bacterial Skin Infections (especially Boils), septicaemia, Skin inflammation and chickenpox. Its Bruised leaves are applied to the Skin raise sores.

Quassia – Its bark and leaves decoction is useful as a treatment for Measles and smallpox. Its bark and leaves decoction is useful as a wash to rid the Skin of external parasites.

Safflower – Its flowers extracts can suppress the promotion effect of TPA on Skin tumor formation initiated with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene. Its considered effective treatment for Measles along with rashes and other Skin problems. Its flowers are used to cleanse and heal Wounds and sores.

BuckthornSea Buckthorn oil has healing and rejuvenating effects on the Skin, helping heal Burns, cuts, Wounds, sunburn, rashes, and other types of Skin damage. It’s a great natural cleanser and exfoliator, when used externally. Its oil (topically applied) increases Skin thickness and helps speed up the healing process of deep cuts in the Skin. Sea Buckthorn berries decoction are mildly Astringent and a useful as a wash to treat Skin irritation and eruptions, and to promote healing. Sea Buckthorn seed oil nourishes the Skin, promotes tissue healing, and will often prove useful in treating Eczema.

Tamarind Seeds – A mix of equal amount of powdered Tamarind seeds and Turmeric is an efficient healer of Measles. A dose of 350-425g is given thrice (3) daily to the patient.

TansyTansy volatile oil contain Camphor concentration which on external application, treat injuries, Bruises and rheumatic problems. It has been shown to help repair damaged Skin, potent Wound-healing, improve Skin exposed to UV radiation and even anti-wrinkle agent.

Tea TreeTea Tree Essential Oil Anti-Microbial, disinfectant and anti-septic properties show its efficacy in tackling Skin diseases and cutaneous Infections (such as dermatitis, itches, wart, dandruff, Acne, rashes). Its anti-viral properties, helps cure viral Infections (such as the Common Cold, influenza, Mumps, Measles, and pox), while its cicatrizant property can help neutralize or diminish the scar marks and after spots left by eruptions, Boils, pox, and Acne. Its anti-viral properties, helps cure viral Infections (such as the Common Cold, influenza, Mumps, Measles, and pox), while its cicatrizant property can help neutralize or diminish the scar marks and after spots left by eruptions, Boils, pox, and Acne. Its an excellent anti-septic and Anti-Biotic which can be applied directly to the Wounds, Boils, sores, cuts or certain eruptions, insect bites and stings, to protect them from Infections.

White SageWhite Sage tea contain compounds (such as eucalyptol) that have Anti-Biotic and anti-allergenic effects. White Sage tea can be applied to Wounds and rashes to speed up healing of the affected parts. The leaves are also burnt and used in the form of an incense to fumigate their homes following the outbreak of infectious ailments like Measles.

Wild IpecacuanhaWild Ipecacuanha latex kills warts and Corns, when applied to the affected area, while the whole plant juice is used to treat ringworm, sores, rashes, dermatitis etc. The plant showed anti-viral activity against Adeno virus, Coxsackie b2, Herpes type-1, Measles, Poliovirus-1 and Semlicki forest virus.