Recently, the American network NBC News reported the second death caused by measles in the state of Texas, USA. The victim was a child under five years old. This case raises an international alert about the growing risk of the disease, which a few years ago was practically eradicated in several countries due to mass vaccination.
Given this scenario, it is essential to recall what measles is, how it can be fatal, why it has been circulating again in various regions, and the crucial role of vaccination in preventing this serious illness.
What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by a virus from the Paramyxoviridae family, genus Morbillivirus. It is transmitted through the air via droplets expelled when coughing, sneezing, or even talking. Just being in contact with an infected person puts you at risk — the virus can remain active in the environment for up to two hours.
Although it may seem like a simple childhood illness at first glance, measles can cause serious complications and, in some cases, lead to death, especially in young children, people with low immunity, or those who are unvaccinated.
Main Symptoms of Measles
Symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after infection and include:
- High fever (above 38.5 °C)
- Dry cough
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Conjunctivitis
- White spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
- Skin rash: the famous red spots that start on the face and spread over the body
The disease usually lasts 7 to 10 days, but complications may arise during or after the initial recovery period.
How Can Measles Lead to Death?
Although many recover completely, measles can develop serious complications such as:
- Viral or bacterial pneumonia, which is the leading cause of measles-related death in children.
- Encephalitis (brain inflammation), which can cause seizures, deafness, and even permanent intellectual disability.
- Severe dehydration and malnutrition, especially in countries with poor healthcare infrastructure.
- Immune suppression, which leaves the body more vulnerable to other infections for weeks or even months.
These risks show that measles is much more than just a “spotty disease.”
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is generally clinical, based on characteristic symptoms, but can be confirmed by laboratory tests (serology for IgM antibody detection or PCR for virus identification).
There is no specific treatment to eliminate the measles virus. Treatment is symptomatic and aims to relieve symptoms and prevent complications:
- Antipyretics (for fever)
- Hydration
- Nutritional support
- Vitamin A supplementation in some cases
- Strict medical care if complications arise
Therefore, prevention remains the main weapon against measles.
Vaccination: The Protection That Saves Lives
The MMR vaccine (which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella) is highly effective and safe. In Brazil, it is part of the vaccination schedule and is administered free of charge through the public health system (SUS).
The standard recommendation includes:
- First dose at 12 months of age
- Second dose at 15 months (with the MMRV vaccine, which also protects against chickenpox)
Adults who were not vaccinated in childhood or are unsure of their vaccination history should seek to update their immunization. The vaccine is contraindicated only for pregnant women, immunosuppressed individuals, and some specific situations—in these cases, a doctor should evaluate the best approach.
Why Has Measles Returned?
The decline in vaccination rates is one of the main reasons for the return of measles in several countries. Anti-vaccine movements, misinformation, and difficulties accessing public healthcare have contributed to outbreaks, including deaths.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known. It is estimated that each infected person can transmit the virus to up to 18 others, making it essential to maintain high vaccination coverage (above 95%) to prevent outbreaks.
Conclusion: Information Saves Lives
The recent case of a child’s death from measles in Texas is a painful reminder: measles is still a real threat. It is a disease that can be prevented with a simple, safe, and effective vaccine. However, misinformation and negligence with the vaccination schedule put innocent lives at risk.
Therefore, keep your vaccination record up to date, encourage immunization, and share accurate information. Prevention starts with knowledge — and in this case, the vaccine is the true shield.
