Written by Dr. Pham Thi Khuong - Grade II Specialist - Pediatric Center - Vinmec Times City International Hospital
Infants may contract measles if the mother is infected with the measles virus during the last two to three weeks of pregnancy, during labor, or immediately after birth, leading to transmission to the infant. Measles in infants is highly dangerous; therefore, mothers must provide special care to prevent complications for the child.
1. Signs of Measles in Infants
Clinical manifestations of measles in infants are often atypical and may include the following signs:
• Mild fever, slight pharyngitis.
• Measles rash: A maculopapular rash, slightly raised but smooth, appears on the skin without a specific order, typically starting from behind the ears and spreading to the face and trunk over three days. The rash may be observable on the back or chest. The rash is not dense, and the infant may exhibit decreased appetite and refusal to feed.
• Diarrhea or vomiting may occur.
• The disease does not present as severely as in older children due to the maternal immunity passed through the placenta.
2. Is Measles Dangerous for Infants?
Measles in infants poses a serious risk because post-infection, the immune response of the body is diminished due to the immunosuppressive effects of the measles virus, rendering the infant more susceptible to severe bacterial infections if not treated appropriately.
The majority of measles-related mortality occurs due to complications associated with the disease. Complications are more prevalent in children under five years of age or adults over 20. The most serious common complications of measles include: blindness due to corneal ulceration from inadequate eye hygiene, encephalitis, severe diarrhea leading to dehydration, otitis media, and severe respiratory infections such as pneumonia.
If an infant exhibits signs of measles, the mother should take the child to the hospital, as the illness course for measles in young children is often severe.
3. How to Prevent and Treat Measles in Infants?
The mother of the child should have received all necessary vaccinations during the immunization age and maintain good health and a positive mindset before and during pregnancy. It is advisable to undergo a comprehensive health check before planning to conceive and to have regular prenatal check-ups at a reliable healthcare facility/hospital. Only through complete and timely vaccination against measles for the mother can the best prevention be established to protect the infant from contracting measles during infancy.
If there are family members suspected of having measles, immediate isolation is necessary to prevent transmission to other children.
Avoid self-medicating infants with antibiotics or vitamins without a doctor's prescription. Ensure that the child rests in a well-ventilated room, avoiding drafts and maintaining hygiene.
4. Should infants with measles bathe with herbal infusions and avoid drafts?
It is advisable to cleanse the extremities of the infant with water that has been boiled and then cooled or with benign herbal infusions such as perilla leaves and green tea.
When caring for an infant diagnosed with measles, physicians recommend bathing the child's hands and feet with water that has been boiled and cooled or with benign herbal solutions like perilla leaves and green tea. It is important to use clean water sources, ensure the herbs are sourced from hygienic conditions, and thoroughly wash the herbs prior to preparation for bathing.
Natural drafts should be avoided; however, it is not necessary to refrain from using electric fans in the room. Utilizing fans can help maintain a comfortable temperature as excessive heat can lead to sweating, potentially causing discomfort and aggravating the condition.
Measles in children is only considered dangerous when diagnosed late and improperly managed, as the majority of cases present in a mild form. Consequently, mothers are advised to undergo comprehensive health evaluations prior to conception and to maintain a positive mental state and good physical health throughout the pregnancy to prevent measles in infants. If a child contracts measles, it is imperative not to self-prescribe medications or administer antibiotics; treatments should be strictly according to the physician's directives. Mothers should seek medical attention promptly to ensure appropriate and timely treatment.
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