Does my child need the measles vaccination?
The recent upsurge in measles cases across South Africa has raised concerns about the spread of this highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the measles virus.
Measles typically spreads through coughing and sneezing, and symptoms include a fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash. Measles can be serious, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems.
The most effective way to prevent measles and its complications is through vaccination. With the current surge in cases, public health officials are urging people to ensure that they and their children are up to date with their vaccinations to help control the spread of this disease.
Fortunately, a highly effective measles vaccine is available.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Measles is a contagious viral illness that primarily affects the respiratory system. Symptoms frequently include a high fever, fatigue, coughing, runny nose, and red, itchy eyes. Koplik spots, which are small red dots with blue-white centres appearing in the mouth, are one of the defining features of the disease. Roughly two weeks after being exposed, a rash begins to spread from the head to other parts of the body.
People infected with measles can be contagious for up to four days before and after the rash appears. It's worth noting that those with weakened immune systems may not necessarily develop the rash. Measles can be severe, and possibly lead to complications such as pneumonia and brain inflammation.
Understanding the measles vaccine
The measles vaccine is live attenuated, which means that it contains a weakened form of the virus. The vaccine works by triggering an immune response in the body that prepares it to fight off the actual measles virus if it ever encounters it. The measles vaccine is usually given as part of the MMR vaccine, which protects against mumps and rubella.
In South Africa, the first dose of the MMR vaccine is recommended at 12 months of age, and the second dose at 18 months. However, in some provinces, the second dose is given at six years.
Why it’s important to get vaccinated
Getting vaccinated against measles is important for several reasons.
Firstly, it helps to protect people from contracting the disease. Vaccination provides immunity against measles, which means that if anyone is exposed to the virus, their body is prepared to fight it off, preventing them from becoming extremely ill.
This is particularly important for people who are more susceptible to severe illness, such as young children, pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems.
Getting vaccinated helps to protect the community as a whole. When a large segment of the population is vaccinated, it creates herd immunity. Herd immunity occurs when enough people are vaccinated, making it difficult for the virus to spread. This means that even people who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and people with certain medical conditions, are still protected from the disease.
What to expect when receiving the vaccine
Receiving the measles vaccine is a simple process. The vaccine is usually injected into the upper arm or thigh. Children may experience mild side effects such as a fever, rash, or soreness at the injection site. Adults may also experience some effects, although it’s generally less common.
According to the Department of Health, children should get their measles vaccine at six and 12 months old and have another booster at six years old.
It is important to note that while the measles vaccine is highly effective, it is not 100% reliable. There is still a small chance that anyone can become infected even after vaccination. The upside is that the symptoms are usually far milder and less likely to cause severe illness or complications.
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.