Rubeola

What is Rubeola?

Rubeola is also known as Measles, red measles. Rubeola is an acute highly contagious viral disease caused by a virus of the genus Morbillivirus. It is characterized by marked by distinct red spots followed by a rash, fever and cough, which primarily affects the respiratory tract, and occurs in children.It is transmitted by direct contact with infectious droplets, through direct contact with discharge from the nose and throat or by airbone. It mainly occurs in the spring and winter and very rare in United States. It can be contracted at any age.

Causes of Rubeola

• It is caused by the virus known as Morbillivirus
• It causes ear infection, pneumonia, brain damage and death
• Reduces the level of Vitamin A in the body which leads to blindness.
• It causes moderate illness.

Symptoms of Rubeola

• Hacking cough
• Fever- 40° C ( 104° F)
• Redness and irritation of the eyes
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Diarrhea

What are the treatments for Rubeola?

• Increase the intake of fluids
• Give acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin to reduce fever. (should not give asprin)
• Vaccine-Give 2 doses of MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, which gives maximum protection against rubeola. first dose should be given at 12 to 15 months of age and second at 4 to 6 years of age.(Not to be given to the children's who are younger than 12 months of age).