Measles is an acute contagious disease characterized by moderate fever
of about a week’s duration; by an eruption on the skin, appearing on
the third or fourth day as small red spots that soon coalesce into
crescentic blotches, remain three or four days, and then disappear with
a branny desquamation; and by catarrhal symptoms involving the eyes,
nose, and bronchial tubes (conjunctivitis, coryza, and bronchitis).
The most common complications of the disease are catarrhal pneumonia,
inflammation of the gastro-intestinal tract, and inflammation of the
middle ear.
=Management.=—The preventive measures described in connection with
scarlet fever are applicable in measles. The room should be maintained
at a temperature of 70° F., and should be moderately darkened. The bed
should be so arranged that the face will be directed away from the
light. Milk, broths, and gruels are suitable forms of nourishment.
The temperature, pulse, respiration, hours of sleep, quantity of
nourishment, amount of urine, and the effects of therapeutic measures
should be carefully noted as in other fevers. Daily inunctions of the
body with cold cream or olive oil are useful. Spraying the nose and
throat with a mild antiseptic solution, and washing the eyes with boric
acid solution (15 grains to the ounce of water) are usually ordered.
Hot baths and hot drinks are indicated when the rash is delayed. Fever
is generally controlled by sponging. Great care is necessary during
convalescence to avert complications.