Best Doctors for Measles in Kolkata

Types/Stages of Measles

Measles typically progresses through three stages:

• Incubation Period: After entering the body, the virus remains dormant for 7-14 days before showing any symptoms.

• Early Symptoms: Signs such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, body aches, and small white spots in the mouth become apparent.

• Rash Stage: A characteristic red rash appears, starting from the hairline and eventually spreading down the body. The rash may begin as flat red spots but can morph into small bumps over time.

Symptoms of Measles

The signs of measles often mimic common cold symptoms initially before intensifying. These include:

• Fever

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Red or inflamed eyes

• Body aches

• Small white spots in the mouth known as Koplik’s spots

• Wide-spreading red rash

Tests to Diagnose Measles

Diagnosis of measles primarily relies on recognising its characteristic symptoms. However, certain tests may be employed for confirmation:

• Physical Examination: Healthcare providers identify measles based on the rash and other symptoms.

• Blood Test: A blood test can help confirm the diagnosis by detecting the presence of the measles virus.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Measles at Apollo Hospitals, Kolkata

At Apollo Hospitals in Kolkata, measles is treated conservatively, as it does not require any surgical intervention. The treatment offered by the best measles specialists mainly focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications:

• Fever-reducing Medications: To manage high temperature and keep the patient comfortable.

• Rest and Hydration: Patients are advised to rest and stay hydrated to prevent dehydration.

• Immune Serum Globulin or Post-Exposure Vaccination: If an individual without immunity has been exposed to the virus, they can be given immune serum globulin or a post-exposure measles vaccine.

• MMR Vaccine: Prevention is key, and the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles. Apollo Hospitals in Kolkata strongly advises this vaccine for all eligible individuals, with the first dose recommended within 12 months of birth and a second dose between 4 and 6 years of age.