Measles is an acute viral respiratory illness, characterized by high fever, tiredness, severe cough, red or bloodshot eyes, and a runny nose followed by a maculopapular rash. The rash usually appears about 14 days after a person is exposed.
Measles can commonly cause an infection in the lungs (pneumonia). People with weakened immune systems can develop an especially dangerous type of pneumonia that sometimes can lead to death.
Until Wednesday, Mumbai city had reported 233 confirmed cases, of which over 200 were reported in the last two months.
Dr. Vasant Khalatkar, National President of the Indian Academy of Paediatrics from Nagpur city told The Live Nagpur that public awareness alone can prevent the outbreak of the disease.
Khalatkar also added “ At present only Mumbai city is involved. The public should first notify if they have any symptoms. The most disease-prone people are the ones who are thickly populated. If a person is having symptoms of pneumonia they should consult the doctor as soon as possible.”
“Central government is helping the state government by providing special wards for the measles patients in Mumbai City. The central government gives medicines free of cost for treatment. Vaccination drives have been increased to prevent the disease, which is a good thing.” said Khalatkar.