Measles outbreak starting again? Essential information from symptoms to vaccines you must know 🚨

A few days ago, I was surprised while watching the news. I heard that a measles case was confirmed at the airport.
I was wondering if measles is still happening these days, and it turns out the measles outbreak has actually started now. 😨
Especially among those who have traveled abroad, since there have been confirmed cases, I was worried for no reason and checked my measles vaccine first.

 

 

What kind of disease is measles?

 

Measles is an acute eruptive viral disease. It is highly contagious, and if you are in the same space as an infected person, there is over a 90% chance of infection 😱

Initially, symptoms like cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis appear similar to a cold, and along with a high fever, a rash spreads from the face to the entire body.

 

The cause of measles is a virus, but it is transmitted through the air, making it highly contagious.
Most cases can be prevented with two doses of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella)!

 

 

 

 

Why is measles resurging now?

 

1. Increase in cases imported from abroad
Confirmed cases have been identified among travelers arriving from measles-endemic countries in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, and there have also been cases of infection occurring at the airport.

 

2. Unvaccinated or missed vaccination households
Some people in their 20s to 40s have not received the second dose of the measles vaccine or have no record of it, increasing the risk of infection.

 

3. Highest level of contagiousness
It is said that one patient can infect 12 to 18 people, and there are even claims that it is more contagious than COVID-19.

 

 

How is measles treated?

 

There is no special antiviral treatment, and most cases improve with symptomatic therapies such as rest and fluid intake.
However, the mortality rate of measles is not low, and if complications such as otitis media, pneumonia, or diarrhea occur, hospitalization may be necessary.

 

✅ Essential prevention guidelines

 

1. Check vaccination status

Check if the MMR vaccine has been administered twice (at 12-15 months and 4-6 years of age).
You can also check your vaccination records on the Vaccination Helper website!

 

3 weeks of symptom observation after overseas travel

- Fever + cough + rash combination suggests measles
- First, consult by phone before going to the hospital 📞

 

3. Isolation of suspected patients is mandatory

- It is recommended to refrain from attending school or work until 4 days after the onset of measles rash.
- To prevent infection in group facilities such as academies and kindergartens.

 

4. Even if already vaccinated, there is a possibility of reinfection

- If exposed to the measles virus, you may experience mild symptoms, but in most cases with vaccination, it passes quickly and lightly.

 

 

 

 

💬  
These days, with colds, the flu, and COVID-19 all happening at once... and now measles is making a comeback 😭
Please check your family vaccination records again, and those who have traveled should carefully monitor their symptoms.

 

Have you all received the MMR vaccine through the second dose?

 

I'll also leave the homepage where you can check for reference!!

• Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency Official Website- Vaccination information available
• WHO Measles Information Page- International infection situation
• Vaccination Assistance Website- Can check my vaccination record