Measles in Pregnancy: Frequently Asked Questions

by Dr. Sushmita Mukherjee Gynecologist in Indore

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious and deadly virus. Measles has been eradicated in the Americas and Europe, but measles is still common in many parts of Africa and Asia. Measles infections during pregnancy can cause complications in the mother and her child. Some of these complications include miscarriage, premature birth, brain damage, or even death for the baby. The effects of measles on a pregnant woman and her unborn child are devastating. All people, including pregnant women, should take care to avoid measles.

How Is Measles Transmitted?

It is often spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing and may remain airborne for up to 2 hours. This means that people who have not been infected but are in the same room as someone with it may still become ill. The virus infects the lining of the airways, causing inflammation and secretions that can lead to breathing difficulties and chest infections such as pneumonia. Mild cases can be fatal in children, whose immune systems are weaker. Death is more likely to occur if the disease occurs in infants under a year old, pregnant women, or people with compromised immune systems.

What Are the Symptoms of Measles?

Symptoms usually appear 10 to 12 days after being infected and include high fever, a runny nose, sore red eyes, coughing, and often a rash that spreads all over the body. The rash usually starts on the face and then spreads down the neck, trunk, arms, and legs. Measles may last for 2 to 3 weeks and can make people feel sicker than they did before. Some people may feel weak and have trouble breathing.

How Do I Know If I’m Immune to Measles Infection?

If you’ve been vaccinated against measles, you don’t have to worry about getting sick, says a gynecologist in Indore. People who were never vaccinated may get sick if they are exposed to a person with measles.

How Should I Assess Measles Immunity Before Pregnancy?

If you are planning a pregnancy and are unsure of your immunity, you should consider having the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. In fact, if you are pregnant, you should receive 2 doses of the vaccine starting from the 15th week of pregnancy.

What Should I Do If I’m Pregnant and Suspect I’ve Been Exposed To Measles?

If you think you have been exposed to measles, you should get tested. Find out what your health care provider or gynecologist in Indore says.

Final Thoughts:

Measles is highly contagious and can be spread by airborne droplets of mucus or saliva. This means that it is transmitted through close contact with an infected person (or someone who has been exposed to measles), as well as by touching surfaces or objects with which that person has had contact. Oral vaccination with the measles vaccine is a major way of preventing measles in people who do not have immunity from natural infection and is the primary method of preventing measles worldwide.

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Created on Dec 17th 2021 05:30. Viewed 169 times.

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