I Health Office Bulletin

I Health Office Bulletin

"More than 4,000 caste of measles have been reported to the State* Health Department this year,” Dr. Mack I. Shanholtz, State Health Commissioner, said today. From now on until late spring; many more cases of measles are expected in the state. 1952 is proving to be a year of high incidence in measles. We may expect a high wave of measles like this every two or three years,” he continued.

“The early symptons of measles are similar to those of the common cold. These symptons increase in severity from two to four days and the cold becomes bronchial in nature. A dull red blotchy rash then appears »~. about the face and neck and spreads to title entire body within a three-day period. At this tim^ the various signs and symptons rapidly disappear, although the skin more slowly resumes normal appearance.

“Most children recover from measles without any ill effects, but it may be sertmir forvifiry yoiing or dteicate children. Children under five, .and especially those under three, are most seriously affected by measles. Since the disease in older children is often mild, many parents believe that — measles in younger children does not merit special attention. This is far from true.

“If the date of exposure to a case of measles is known, development of the disease may be prevented in young or sick children or the disease may be modified by the injection of a small amount of gamma globulin, which is available at your local health department at no charge. These injections must be made soon after exposure and in the proper dosage. This gives only temporary protection, but many lives can be saved by postponing the attack of measles in weak or young children,” Dr. Shanholtz said.

“Most deaths from measles occur in youngsters under three years of age. The disease often increases their