Morbilli

Morbilli, also known as Measles, is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by the measles virus. It is an airborne disease which spreads easily through the coughs and sneezes of infected people. It may also be spread through contact with saliva or nasal secretions.

Symptoms

The initial symptoms, which usually appear 10–12 days after infection, include high fever, a runny nose, bloodshot eyes, and tiny white spots on the inside of the mouth. Several days later, a rash develops, starting on the face and upper neck and gradually spreading downwards.

Prevention

Prevention is primarily by the measles vaccine, which is often administered in combination with vaccines for mumps and rubella (MMR). Once a person has become infected, no specific treatment is available, although supportive care may improve outcomes. Such care may include oral rehydration solution (for dehydration), healthy food, and medications to control the fever. Antibiotics may be used if secondary bacterial infections such as ear infections or pneumonia occur.

Epidemiology

Globally, measles affects about 20 million people a year, primarily in the developing areas of Africa and Asia. It is one of the leading vaccine-preventable disease causes of death. In 1980, before widespread vaccination, measles caused an estimated 2.6 million deaths each year.

See also

• Eradication of infectious diseases
• List of notifiable diseases

Morbilli Resources
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