From the Guidelines
The treatment for measles (rubeola) superinfection focuses on supportive care, including rest, adequate fluid intake, and medications to reduce fever and discomfort, as well as vitamin A supplements to reduce severity and complications, especially in areas with high rates of vitamin A deficiency. Measles is a viral infection that requires symptomatic relief rather than specific antiviral treatment. For measles infection, treatment includes rest, adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, and medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and discomfort. Vitamin A supplements are recommended for children with measles, as they can reduce severity and complications, especially in areas with high rates of vitamin A deficiency. The standard dose is 200,000 IU for children over 12 months (100,000 IU for 6-12 months, 50,000 IU for under 6 months), given once daily for two days 1. Some key considerations for treatment include:
- Administering standard treatment for complications, such as oral rehydration therapy (ORT) for diarrhea and antibiotics for acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) 1
- Providing a second dose of vitamin A on day 2 for children with complicated measles (pneumonia, otitis, croup, diarrhea with moderate or severe dehydration, or neurological problems) 1 Prevention through vaccination with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine remains the most effective approach to controlling measles. If you're experiencing measles symptoms or have been exposed, consult a healthcare provider promptly for appropriate guidance and care.
From the Research
Treatment for Measles Superinfection
The treatment for measles superinfection involves supportive care and management of complications. Key aspects of treatment include:
- Supportive therapy, such as vitamin A supplementation, to reduce the risk of mortality and complications 2, 3, 4, 5
- Monitoring for and treatment of secondary bacterial infections with antibiotics 4, 6
- Rehydration in the case of severe diarrhea 4
- Correction of dehydration and nutritional deficiencies 6
Role of Vitamin A Supplementation
Vitamin A supplementation plays a crucial role in the management of measles, particularly in reducing the risk of mortality and complications. Studies have shown that:
- Two doses of vitamin A (200,000 IU) on consecutive days can reduce the risk of mortality in children under the age of two years 2
- Vitamin A supplementation can reduce the incidence of croup and pneumonia-specific mortality 2, 3
- Routine vitamin A supplementation and measles vaccination can reduce the chances of complications amongst cases of measles 5
Management of Complications
Complications of measles, such as pneumonia, can be managed with: