There has been a concerning increase in Measles Outbreaks in the US in recent years, with cases being reported in numerous communities. Measles, which was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, is now resurfacing due to gaps in vaccination coverage, posing a serious public health threat, particularly for susceptible groups like newborns and infants who are too young to be vaccinated.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can have grave consequences for those who are not vaccinated. Newborns and infants who are too young to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are at particularly high risk. This blog will cover what measles is, why it’s so dangerous for babies, and the practical steps parents can take to protect their little ones.
Measles: What Is It?
Measles is caused by a virus from the paramyxovirus family. While it primarily infects the respiratory system, its effects can be systemic, leading to a range of serious complications.
Common symptoms include:
- High fever (can spike to more than 104°F)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Sore throat
- Tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
The most recognizable sign is a red, blotchy rash, which typically appears 3-5 days after the first symptoms. It usually begins as flat red spots at the hairline and behind the ears before spreading down the face, neck, and eventually to the rest of the body.
Transmission: The measles virus is exceptionally contagious. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain infectious in the airspace or on surfaces for up to two hours after the infected person has left the area. This makes schools, hospitals, and public transportation high-risk environments.
While often considered a childhood illness, measles can infect anyone who is not vaccinated or hasn’t had it before. Severe cases can lead to life-threatening complications like pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and even death.
Why Newborns and Infants Are at High Risk
Babies are uniquely vulnerable to measles for several key reasons:
- The Vaccination Gap: The first dose of the MMR vaccine is typically administered between 12 and 15 months of age. This means infants under 12 months have no direct vaccine-induced protection. (Note: In specific outbreak situations or for international travel, a dose can be given as early as 6 months, but this requires consultation with a pediatrician).
- Immune System Development: A newborn’s immune system is still learning and developing, making them more susceptible to infections in general.
- Waning Passive Immunity: Babies receive antibodies from their mother through the placenta, a protection known as passive immunity. However, this protection is only temporary, typically lasting for several months after birth, and may not be sufficient to prevent measles, especially if the mother’s own immunity is not robust.
- Increased Exposure Risk: In an outbreak, infants can be exposed in various settings—hospitals, public spaces, or even within their own families if relatives are unvaccinated. Falling vaccination rates and the spread of misinformation have increased the frequency of outbreaks, directly elevating the risk for unvaccinated infants.
The Real Dangers of Measles to Infants
While some cases can be mild, measles can be severe and unpredictable in infants. Complications include:
- Pneumonia: This lung infection is the most common cause of death from measles in young children.
- Encephalitis: Swelling of the brain can occur, which may lead to convulsions, permanent brain damage, or death.
- Blindness: Measles can cause severe eye infections and corneal scarring, leading to blindness.
- Death: While rare in countries with advanced medical care, measles can be fatal, especially for malnourished or immunocompromised children.
- Long-Term Immune System Damage: A serious, lesser-known risk is that the measles virus can damage the immune system’s “memory,” making the child more vulnerable to other common infections for months or even years after the measles illness has passed.
How to Protect Your Newborn from Measles
Since they cannot receive the vaccine immediately, protecting infants requires a strategy of “cocooning” and vigilance.
- Vaccinate Family and Close Contacts: The single most effective way to protect your newborn is to ensure everyone around them is up-to-date on their MMR vaccine. This includes parents, siblings, grandparents, and regular caregivers. Herd immunity helps create a protective shield around those who cannot be vaccinated.
- Avoid Crowded Areas During Outbreaks: If there is a known measles outbreak in your community, it is wise to limit your newborn’s exposure to crowded indoor spaces like shopping malls, airports, and large gatherings.
- Practice Meticulous Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and teach older children to do the same. Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and toys. Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
- Be Vigilant About Symptoms: If your newborn has been potentially exposed, monitor them closely for early signs like high fever, cough, and runny nose. The characteristic rash usually follows. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you suspect exposure or notice symptoms. Do not visit the clinic without calling first, as they may need to take special precautions to prevent exposing others.
- Discuss Immune Globulin (IG) with Your Doctor: If your infant is exposed to measles and is at high risk, a healthcare provider may recommend immune globulin—a concentration of antibodies that can prevent or lessen the severity of the disease. It is most effective when given within six days of exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I get my newborn vaccinated against measles early?
A: Generally, no. The first routine dose is given at 12-15 months. However, if there is an outbreak or you must travel to a high-risk area, your pediatrician may recommend an early dose from 6-11 months. This child will still need the two routine doses after their first birthday.
Q: How long does a newborn’s immunity from the mother last?
A: The antibodies transferred during pregnancy (passive immunity) provide some protection, but it wanes over time, typically between 3 to 6 months of age. This leaves a gap before the baby is eligible for their own vaccine.
Q: What should I do if my baby is exposed to measles?
A: Contact your pediatrician or healthcare provider immediately. They will advise you on the next steps, which may include monitoring for symptoms or the possible administration of immune globulin.
Q: Is the MMR vaccine safe for my child?
A: Yes. The MMR vaccine is very safe and effective. It has been used for decades and has been extensively studied by scientists worldwide. The risks from the diseases it prevents are far greater than the risks from the vaccine.
Conclusion
Measles is a serious and highly contagious disease that poses a significant threat to newborns and infants too young to be vaccinated. In light of recent outbreaks, it is more critical than ever to ensure your family’s vaccinations are current and to take proactive steps to shield your baby from exposure.
By practicing good hygiene, avoiding high-risk situations during outbreaks, and creating a vaccinated “cocoon” around your infant, you can dramatically reduce their risk. Vaccination remains our most powerful tool for preventing outbreaks and protecting the most vulnerable among us.
If you have any questions about your child’s immunization schedule or need guidance on how to keep your newborn safe, speak with your healthcare provider to create a personalized protection plan.
Refrences
World Health Organization (WHO). Measles
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Measles: What You Need to Know
Disclaimer
The information in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making decisions about your child’s vaccinations and health. The author and publisher are not responsible for any actions taken based on the content of this article.