From the Guidelines
Rubeola is indeed measles, a highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the body. The disease is caused by the measles virus, which belongs to the paramyxovirus family, and is preventable through vaccination, specifically the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine [ 1 ]. Measles can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death, particularly in young children and those with weakened immune systems, with a case-fatality rate as high as 25% in developing countries [ 1 ].
Key Characteristics of Measles
- The incubation period of measles averages 10-12 days from exposure to prodrome and 14 days from exposure to rash [ 1 ]
- The disease can be severe and is most frequently complicated by diarrhea, middle ear infection, or bronchopneumonia [ 1 ]
- Encephalitis occurs in approximately one of every 1,000 reported cases, with survivors often having permanent brain damage and mental retardation [ 1 ]
Importance of Vaccination
- Vaccination is crucial for prevention, with the MMR vaccine typically given to children in two doses - the first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years of age
- It's essential not to confuse rubeola (measles) with rubella (German measles), which is a different viral infection with milder symptoms [ 1 ]
From the Research
Definition of Rubeola
- Rubeola is also known as "red measles" or "10-day measles" 2
- It is a highly contagious exanthematous viral illness
Relationship between Rubeola and Measles
- Rubeola is another term for measles 2
- Measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella are serious diseases that can lead to serious complications, disability, and death 3
Vaccination against Measles
- The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for all adults who do not have immunization or contraindications 4
- Two doses of MMR vaccine are recommended for children, with the first dose administered at age 12 through 15 months and the second dose administered at age 4 through 6 years before school entry 5
- The MMR vaccine is effective in preventing measles, with a vaccine effectiveness of 95% after one dose and 96% after two doses 3