(a characteristic symptom of measles) – numerous gray-white papules that appear on the mucosa of the cheeks, near the molars and premolars. The spots appear 1-2 days before the rash appears and disappear within 1-2 days after the rash appears.Measles rash – a rash usually appears 14 days after infection. At first it appears behind the ears and on the face, then moves to the torso and limbs. The lesions are maculopapular in nature and are first dark pink, then darken, become brick-red, merge with each other and cover the entire body.
After 3-4 days, the rash resolves in the same order as it appeared, leaving a brown discoloration that peels over time.The period of recovery from measles – as the rash subsides, the fever decreases and the patient’s condition improves. There is a slight peeling on the skin of the face and trunk. The patient infects other people before the onset of the rash – from the onset of the prodromal symptoms – until 3-5 days after its onset.
The measles virus is sensitive to UV radiation and high temperature, and remains contagious in the air and on objects for up to 2 hours.Measles causesMeasles is caused by the measles virus belonging to the genus Morbillivirus of the Paramyxoviridae family.The only source of infection is the virus carrier, that is, the sick person.The virus is spread by airborne droplets and by direct contact with nasopharyngeal secretions – runny nose and saliva.
The mucosa of the nose, mouth and conjunctiva are the gateways of infection.Measles diagnosisDue to the fact that the clinical picture of measles may be similar to other diseases with rash, the physician should collect material for virological tests in each case of suspected measles.Performing these tests is important in order to carry out epidemiological surveillance and implement a measles eradication program.