COVID-19 may have subsided, but now, measles is spreading rapidly. Once rare in South Korea thanks to the introduction of a live vaccine in the 1960s, measles resurges due to declining vaccination rates and overseas transmissions. Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases, prompting significant concern. However, it is also a disease that can be prevented for life with proper vaccination, making prevention all the more important.
Spreading Globally
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 310,000 measles cases occurred globally last year. In terms of regions, Europe and the Middle East reported the most cases, while Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific—popular destinations for South Korean travelers—also saw numerous infections.
Extremely Contagious
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads through the air via coughing or sneezing. Classified as a Class II infectious disease, it can infect over 90% of individuals who lack immunity when they come into contact with an infected person. One measles patient can transmit the virus to 12 to 18 people, demonstrating its high transmission potential.
Why Is Measles Coming Back?
You may have heard that measles has resurged in recent years. What’s behind this trend? In some areas, declining vaccination rates have weakened herd immunity, allowing the virus to spread more easily. If travelers come from countries with low vaccination rates, it becomes just a matter of time before they spread the virus to those around them.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Measles only infects humans and can quickly spread through international travel or contact with unvaccinated individuals. This increases the risk of infection in crowded places. Additionally, because the transmission pathways are extensive, individuals with weakened immune systems or young children are more susceptible to infection.
How It Compares to Chickenpox
Chickenpox is an acute rash infection caused by the varicella virus, which also triggers shingles. While both diseases feature rashes, oozing, and severe itching, chickenpox is characterized by intense itching, distinguishing it from measles. Other symptoms include mild fever and fatigue. Scratching the itchy areas can lead to scarring, so it is best to avoid doing so.
The Power of Prevention
Fortunately, measles is preventable with vaccination. The first dose provides 93% protection, while the second offers 97%. The vaccine should be administered in two doses: once between 12 to 15 months of age and again between 4 to 6 years. When both doses are received, immunity is known to last a lifetime. A single dose is considered incomplete and may not offer full protection, making both doses highly recommended.
Early Signs to Watch
Initial measles symptoms resemble a common cold: coughing, a runny nose, and grayish-white spots inside the mouth. A high fever and rash starting on the face and spreading across the body typically appear around 14 days after exposure. The rash lasts 5 to 6 days and fades within 7 to 10 days. Once a rash appears, patients must be isolated for 4 days.
No Cure, But Complications Can Be Serious
Most cases of measles improve with symptomatic treatment without any specific medication. However, complications such as otitis media and pneumonia can occasionally occur. In such cases, hospitalization may be necessary, and there have been instances where the measles virus affects the central nervous system, leading to encephalitis after recovery. Children with weaker immune systems face a higher risk of complications from measles and should seek medical attention promptly.
The most common cause of death from measles in children is pneumonia, but encephalitis, which can cause seizures and lead to hearing or intellectual disabilities, and severe diarrhea that can cause dehydration, are also serious risks. If a pregnant woman contracts measles, it increases the risk of premature labor, low birth weight, and maternal mortality. Given the potential for these severe complications, it is crucial to prevent measles infections through vaccination and public health measures.
If You’re Traveling
If you’re planning an overseas trip, ensure you’ve received both doses of the measles vaccine. If you’re unsure or cannot confirm your vaccination history, receiving two doses spaced four weeks apart before departure is advised. During travel, maintain good personal hygiene, wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. After returning home, monitor for symptoms such as fever or rash for 7 to 21 days—the measles incubation period. If symptoms appear, wear a mask and visit a healthcare facility promptly.
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