symptoms, how it is spread and when to get the vaccine

A new case of measles has raised alerts before the Mexican authorities, and after the General Directorate of Epidemiology (DGE) of the Ministry of Health of the federal government detected an imported case in Mexico City, doubts have once again arisen about measles symptoms and when to get vaccinated.

The case involves a four year old boy that arrived at the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) from London, being initially detected in the international health clinic of the public health services of Mexico City.

Once the case was identified, the rapid response protocol was immediately activated with the public health services of Mexico City. However, this incident raises several questions about the effectiveness of prevention measures and the importance of vaccination to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

How is measles spread?

According to the Mayo Clinic, measles is a childhood viral infection found in the nose and throat of an infected child or adult. While it used to be common, it can now be prevented through vaccination.

The measles is transmitted from person to person. An infected person can spread the virus for about eight days, starting four days before the rash appears and continuing for four more days.

“When a person with measles coughs, sneezes or talks, las infected droplets They disperse into the air, where other people can inhale them. Infected droplets can remain in the air for about an hour..

What are the symptoms of measles?

Symptoms usually appear 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Although the most visible is a prominent skin rash, it also presents other signs, according to the WHO.

Before spreading throughout the body, the virus infects the respiratory tract. Therefore, the first symptomswhich usually last between 4 and 7 days, include runny nose, cough, watery and red eyes and small white spots on the inside of the cheeks.

The acne It begins 7 to 18 days after exposure, usually on the face and upper neck. It spreads for about 3 days, until it reaches the hands and feet. It usually lasts 5-6 days until it fades.

When to get the measles vaccine?

In Mexico, it is recommended that children receive two doses of the vaccine: the first at 12 months old and the second to the 6 years or upon entering primary school.

Adults should also make sure they are vaccinated, especially those who did not receive both doses during childhood.

The measles vaccine Is available in IMSS clinics. It’s important to put attention on should not be administered during the first trimester of pregnancy. If you had measles during childhood or adolescence, you may not need to get vaccinated again.

Vaccination is essential to protect oneself and the community against measles. Keeping vaccinations up to date is a key preventative measure to combat this highly contagious and potentially serious disease.

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