More than 80% of reported measles cases involved patients, including children, who did not receive vaccination. The European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases concluded that children under the age of two have a higher risk of dying from measles.
In this article, you will learn how to prevent measles and avoid the serious consequences of this dangerous viral disease.
Vaccination
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. If you have never received an MMR vaccine, whether as an adult or a child, you should get one. In most countries people usually receive 2 doses of the vaccine.
These vaccination rules generally apply worldwide:
- Babies 6 to 11 months old should receive one dose if traveling.
- Babies who received the vaccine should get revaccinated after their first birthday.
- Children and adults who have not been vaccinated should receive 2 doses within five weeks.
- Two doses of MMR at the proper interval are almost 100% effective.
Preventing Contamination
Measles are spread as particle aerosols. This means that if an infected person breathes, talks, or coughs in your vicinity, you may get infected. Particle aerosols can linger in the air for hours, which makes them very dangerous.
Cleanliness and hygiene is especially important in contamination prevention. There are some simple rules you can follow to minimize the risks:
- Make sure your hands are always clean, you can use a sanitizer
- Avoid contact with people who are down with measles
- Don’t touch your face, mouth, or nose
- Keep your mouth and nose covered when sneezing
Things to Remember
Although potentially very dangerous, measles is preventable. Immunization is the best way to avoid contracting the virus no matter what some people may tell you. Following the above mentioned tips on how to prevent measles may protect you from the virus if you haven’t received sufficient vaccination.
