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Measles

Introduction

Measles is a previously common (incidence now greatly reduced due to vaccination) usually childhood infection. Most cases are self-limiting, it is extremely infectious and carries a complication rate of 10-20%. Measles remains a major cause of childhood mortality worldwide with an estimated 100 000 deaths annually. Measles is the leading cause of vaccine preventable death worldwide.

In recent years, cases in the developed world have risen due to the anti-vaccine movement, initially sparked by fears over the MMR vaccine in the early 2000s.

Boy with measles

Disease progression and symptoms

 

Complications

Complications are highest in those aged <1 year, and lowest in those aged 1 to 9 years.

Measles in pregnancy often causes a more severe illness and is associated with pneumonitis, increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth and low birth weight.

Treatment

Essentially supportive

Vaccination in the UK

References

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