Measles: what you need to know

How to keep your family safe from this highly contagious disease

You may have thought that measles was a childhood disease of the past, but recent outbreaks of the disease in Quebec and Canada have raised concerns among parents and healthcare professionals.

Although it seems fairly harmless with its red spots, measles is one of the most serious contagious childhood diseases because of the serious complications associated with it, such as:

• pneumonia,
• encephalitis, and
• meningitis.

Complications are more common in people whose immune systems are weakened by treatment or serious illness (e.g., leukemia) and in babies under one year of age.

However, it is important to note that unvaccinated adults, especially those born after 1970, are more likely to contract the disease and suffer complications.

Facts about measles

• The measles virus is spread through contact with nasal or oral secretions and through airborne droplets.
• The classic symptoms of measles first appear as a fever that lasts 3 to 4 days, often accompanied by a cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The rash appears 3 to 5 days later. It starts on the face (hairline) and behind the ears, then spreads to the trunk and limbs, persists for about 5 to 6 days, and then disappears in the same order.
• Symptoms of the disease appear 8 to 12 days after the child is exposed to the measles virus, and the disease usually lasts 10 to 14 days, from the onset of the first symptoms until the rash fades.
• Unfortunately, once a child has contracted measles, doctors must let the disease run its course, as there is no specific treatment for measles; all that can be done is to treat the symptoms. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial complications, such as pneumonia, which sometimes accompany measles.
• Measles is an extremely contagious disease: one case of measles can infect up to 18 other unprotected people (those who have not received both doses of the vaccine or who have not had the disease).
• The measles vaccine is very effective: 99% of people who receive two doses of a measles vaccine (MMR or MMR-Var) are protected against the disease.

The importance of measures to control transmission

If you suspect that you or your child has measles or think you may have been exposed:

• Stay home and call Info-Santé at 811 for advice.
• Most people recover within 2 to 3 weeks without complications.
• If your symptoms worsen, call 811, see your doctor, or go to the emergency room and inform the staff as soon as you arrive.Si vous suspectez que vous ou votre enfant avez la rougeole ou vous pensez avoir été exposé :

Since the measles virus is transmitted through the air, it is essential to immediately isolate anyone suspected of having or diagnosed with measles in a well-ventilated room with the door closed as soon as they arrive at a healthcare facility to avoid exposing others.

• Notify the facility in advance so that the necessary precautions can be taken:
• Upon arrival at the hospital:
  • Wash your hands (with hand sanitizer or soap and water).
  • Put on a mask (this applies to anyone aged 2 years and older who can wear one).
  • Go directly to the point of service.
  • Tell the nurse at the emergency room triage or the clinic receptionist that you suspect you have measles (or that you have been exposed to measles).

The importance of measles vaccination

Vaccinating your child against measles is the best way to protect them against this highly contagious and potentially serious disease.

Currently, two doses of the combined measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine are recommended for children. According to the Quebec Immunization Protocol, the first dose should be given at 12 months of age and the second dose at 18 months of age.

Any child who is not vaccinated and is exposed to the disease is likely to contract it simply because it is one of the most contagious infectious diseases.

How do you know if you need to be vaccinated?

Since measles was widespread before the 1970s, when there was no measles vaccination program, it is likely that people born before 1970 have had the disease even if they have no memory of it, and they probably do not need vaccines.

People born between 1970 and 1979 should have received one dose of the vaccine. A single dose of the vaccine would be sufficient, as these individuals are considered to have received a natural booster dose through exposure to measles, which was endemic (i.e., present everywhere) in the 1970s. However, some people born during this period (between 1970 and 1979) should receive two doses. These are people who are at greater risk of being exposed to or transmitting the disease because of their occupation (health care workers) or because they travel to countries where measles is widespread (travelers or military personnel).

If you have any questions, you can call Info-Santé (by dialing 811), consult your doctor, or contact the CLSC affiliated with the Centre de santé et de services sociaux (CSSS) in your area.

Is the vaccine free in Quebec?

Yes, you can get the vaccine for free at the CLSC affiliated with the CSSS in your area or from a vaccinating doctor.

Is the vaccine safe?

es. The vaccine has been around and in use for about 60 years. It has proven effective in preventing and controlling measles, rubella, and mumps. It is very safe. In most cases, the vaccine causes no reaction. Local reactions at the injection site are possible, but they are short-lived.

Sometimes, the vaccinated person may experience fever and a temporary, non-contagious rash between the 5th and 12th day after vaccination. Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain caused by infection) can occur in 1 in 1 million vaccinated people, while the risk of encephalitis associated with measles is 1 in 1,000. Other reactions may also occur.

Autism is not caused by the MMR or MMR-Var vaccine. If you would like to learn more about the vaccine, the Public Health Agency of Canada website can answer many of your questions.

References

Public Health Agency of Canada: Vaccine-preventable diseases Measles

Quebec Health and Social Services: Measles outbreaks