WHO warns against one of the most contagious viruses. “It will be a very difficult 12 months,” we read.
The World Health Organization warns against the spread of the measles virus. It is one of the most contagious viruses, classified as one of the most dangerous childhood diseases. “We are at a crossroads. It will be a very difficult period of 12 to 24 months to alleviate the situation,” World Health Organization expert Patrick O’Connor told Reuters.
Why is the measles virus still dangerous?
Measles is a highly contagious disease that is controlled through mandatory mass vaccination. However, for them to be effective, at least 95 percent of the population must be vaccinated. Meanwhile, the number of vaccinations has been declining for years, and in 2021 a record number of children in the world – 40 million – did not receive measles vaccinations. If this trend continues, we risk increasing the number of measles cases, especially as social distancing rules are no longer enforced, which could contribute to a faster spread of the virus.
How is the measles virus transmitted?
The measles virus is spread by airborne droplets: when sneezing, talking, coughing, kissing or hugging. It can remain on the surface of objects for up to 2 hours, which is especially dangerous in nurseries and kindergartens, where children often exchange toys, drool or put them in their mouths. It is assumed that one sick person can infect up to 18 healthy people, which clearly indicates the high contagiousness of the virus.
Measles in Poland
In Poland, even before the coronavirus pandemic, there was a gradual increase in the incidence of measles. According to the Pzh.gov.pl website, from October 2018 to June 2019, 1688 cases of measles were registered. The increase in measles cases is associated with a decrease in the number of children who received two full doses of the MMR vaccine against measles, mumps and rubella. Only vaccinating 95 percent of the population can protect us from measles.
Can measles be cured?
There is no cure for measles. Treatment of the disease is only symptomatic and consists in lowering body temperature, stopping cough or muscle pain. The disease must be waited out, antibiotic therapy is not effective, since this is a viral disease. For some children, doctors prescribe extra vitamin A supplements during measles.
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