In the wake of a measles outbreak in Chicago, health experts in Wisconsin are raising alarm about the highly contagious nature of the virus. According to Dr. Jim Conway, a Professor of Pediatrics at UW-Madison and the Director of Immunization Programs for UW Health, measles is one of the most contagious viruses, capable of spreading through the air and infecting individuals.

Dr. Conway emphasized the importance of staying up to date with vaccinations, particularly the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which he described as extraordinarily effective and safe in preventing these infections. For individuals who are not vaccinated, Dr. Conway recommended careful consideration of travel plans, regular handwashing, and the use of high-quality N95 masks for optimal protection. Surgical masks and cloth masks, he noted, may not provide sufficient defense against the virus.

Measles is a respiratory virus that manifests as a rash and in some cases, can cause pneumonia. Dr. Conway highlighted that the virus can even be fatal, with a mortality rate of 2% among those who contract the illness. Complicating matters, infected individuals can be contagious prior to developing a rash or fever, unknowingly shedding the virus three to four days beforehand.

Recognizable signs of infection include a rash that starts on the head or face and spreads throughout the body. Dr. Conway also identified conjunctivitis or red eye as a common symptom of measles.

The challenging task for health officials lies in tracing the origins of an outbreak. With a lengthy incubation period of up to a couple of weeks, contact tracing becomes crucial in identifying potential sources of exposure. Unfortunately, there is currently no specific treatment for measles, and severe cases may require hospitalization.

Dr. Conway emphasized that while most individuals do not succumb to the virus, the consequences and morbidity associated with measles can be significant. The immune system of those affected may become compromised for up to a year, and a small proportion may suffer from central nervous system problems that can have long-lasting impacts.

Regarding the age group most vulnerable to measles, Dr. Conway expressed concern about a substantial number of adults between 30 to 60 years old who lack full protection against the virus. He urged these individuals to consider receiving their first or second dose of the vaccine, as it is never too late to ensure immunity.

Notably, measles outbreaks are not limited to Chicago or Wisconsin. Dr. Conway highlighted that currently, 87 countries worldwide are experiencing various types of measles outbreaks, turning it into a global concern. The fear among health authorities is that this highly contagious virus could potentially evolve into another pandemic.

Measles poses a threat to both children and adults, with children often exhibiting more resilience and stronger immune systems compared to adults, who may face greater difficulty in recovering from the infection.

As health experts in Wisconsin sound the alarm, it is imperative for individuals at risk to prioritize vaccinations and take appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of measles, ultimately safeguarding the health and well-being of communities.