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Mexico City, Julio 1, 2025
Measles Returns to Mexico
A disease once eradicated resurfaces, prompting health concerns.
- Over 2,600 measles cases confirmed in Mexico.
- Eight deaths attributed to the measles virus.
- Chihuahua state is currently the epicenter of the outbreak.
- measles symptoms typically appear 10-14 days post-exposure.
- Vaccination remains the most effective preventative measure.
The re-emergence of measles, a disease once considered a distant memory, has public health officials scrambling as they work to contain the spread, especially given the severity of the recent cases.
States Under Scrutiny
Chihuahua is currently the state with the highest number of infections and deaths. Other states closely monitored include Sonora,Zacatecas,Durango,Coahuila,Michoacán,Tamaulipas,and Campeche.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Catching measles early is vital. What exactly should people be looking for?
Common Symptoms Include:
- Fever
- Cough (hacking)
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Inflamed eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Koplik spots: Tiny white spots with bluish-white centers on a red background, found inside the mouth
- rash: Characterized by large, flat spots that frequently enough merge together
The Contagious Period
How long is someone with measles contagious? A person infected with measles can transmit the virus for approximately eight days.This period starts four days before the rash appears and continues until four days after the rash is present.
The Impact of Measles: beyond the Symptoms
Beyond the immediate symptoms, the measles virus can lead to serious complications, particularly for vulnerable populations. The current outbreak in Mexico, with its tragic toll of eight deaths, underscores the importance of understanding the broader impact of this disease.
Global Concern: While Mexico is currently experiencing an outbreak, measles remains a global health concern, especially in developing countries [[1]].
Complications and Risk Factors
Measles complications can range from mild to severe, affecting various organ systems. These complications are more common in children under five years old and adults over 30 [[3]]. In some instances, measles can lead to pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. Additionally, encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain, is a severe complication that can cause permanent brain damage.
The most frequent measles complications are:
- Pneumonia: The most common cause of death from measles.
- Encephalitis: Can lead to brain damage.
- Ear infections: Can cause permanent hearing loss.
- Diarrhea: Can lead to dehydration.
Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive therapies, are at a higher risk of developing severe complications.
Severe Complications: One in five children infected with the measles virus may develop severe complications [[3]].
Vaccination: The Best Defense
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe, effective, and the best way to prevent measles. The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles, and it’s typically given to children in two doses. Two doses of the vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles [[1]]. Public health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccination, especially in areas experiencing outbreaks.
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