Measles is often thought of as a disease that only affects children. However, adults are still at risk of contracting measles, especially if they haven't received full immunizations or have a weakened immune system. In some cases, measles in adults can actually cause more severe symptoms than in children.
Besides causing significant discomfort, measles in adults also carries the risk of serious complications, such as pneumonia or nervous system disorders. Therefore, it is important for adults to understand the medical facts about measles and how to prevent it.
What is Measles?
Measles is a contagious infectious disease caused by the measles virus. This virus attacks the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body via the bloodstream.
Measles is transmitted through airborne droplets, such as when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The measles virus is highly contagious and can persist in the air or on surfaces for several hours, making the risk of transmission quite high, especially in crowded or enclosed environments.
Causes of Measles in Adults
The primary cause of measles in adults is infection with the measles virus. The measles virus can enter the body through the respiratory tract, such as the nose and mouth, and through the eyes. The virus then spreads to the lungs and begins infecting immune system cells. These infected cells then travel to the lymph nodes, multiply, and spread into the bloodstream, where they spread to various parts of the body.
Through the bloodstream, the measles virus can reach various vital organs, including the skin, liver, nervous system, and spleen. In the skin, the measles virus triggers inflammation of the small blood vessels (capillaries), which then causes the characteristic red rash. Measles symptoms generally begin to appear within 10 to 14 days after infection.
Risk Factors for Measles in Adults
However, there are several factors that increase the risk of measles transmission, including:
- Not receiving the complete MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) immunization as a child. Without optimal immune protection, the body becomes more susceptible to measles virus infection.
- Decreased immunity due to stress, fatigue, lack of sleep, or certain illnesses, so that the immune system is unable to fight viruses properly.
- History of direct contact with measles sufferers , especially at close range and for a long time.
- Traveling to areas with high measles cases , either domestically or internationally, increases the chance of exposure to the virus.
Measles Symptoms in Adults
Measles symptoms in adults generally appear gradually and can be quite severe, lasting around 10–14 days after infection. Some common symptoms include:
- High fever that can last for several days and is often accompanied by weakness.
- Cough, runny nose, and sore throat that resemble an upper respiratory infection.
- Eyes are red and sensitive to light.
- The appearance of Koplik spots , which are small white spots in the oral cavity.
- A red rash that usually starts on the face, then spreads to the neck, body, and the entire body.
How to Prevent Measles in Adults
Measles prevention in adults can be done through several important steps, including:
- MMR immunization , especially for those who have never received or are unsure whether they have received the full immunization schedule. Vaccination has been shown to be effective in providing long-term protection against the measles virus.
- Maintain personal hygiene by washing your hands regularly using soap and running water.
- Avoid direct contact with measles sufferers to minimize the risk of transmission.
- Have an immunization consultation before traveling, especially to areas with high measles cases.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Measles in adults is not a mild disease and can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. Therefore, prevention through immunization and early treatment play a crucial role in reducing the risk of more severe consequences.
If you experience symptoms suggestive of measles, such as a high fever accompanied by a rash, or are unsure about your immunization status, you should consult a doctor immediately. Schedule an appointment immediately to receive appropriate examination and treatment, while also helping prevent transmission to others around you.
The article was written by Dr. Johana Prihatini, Sp.PD, FINASIM (Internist Specialist at EMC Pekayon Hospital).