Vaccinate and know the symptoms of measles
Several schools in Polokwane recently issued warnings to parents to be on the look out for symptoms of measles and German measles, after these diseases surfaced again in the city
POLOKWANE – Measles is a highly contagious infection and although not seasonal, outbreaks are often reported, especially at primary schools or places where children interact with each other regularly.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), measles causes an estimated 2,6 million deaths per year. Initial symptoms include a fever, cough, a runny nose and red eyes.
A red rash first appears on the face then spreads to the rest of the body. Most people who get German measles will only experience minor complications.
Adults can get measles as well, but this is highly unlikely as most people have the disease in early childhood. It is normally passed through direct contact or through the air.
According to Dr Mabowa Makhomisane at the Metropolitan Medical Centre in Polokwane, some of the more serious complications associated with the virus include excessive diarrhoea, blindness, swelling of the brain and pneumonia.
“It is associated with a very high fever which can reach as high as 40º C and cause what we call febrile seizures. That is why it is extremely important to have your children vaccinated soon after they are born.”
