Measles Related Complications: A Hospital-Based Study in Kumaon Region of Uttarakhand

Abstract

Background: Measles is a contagious vaccine-preventable illness caused by the measles virus.1
Aim: To study complications of measles in pediatric patients & to determine the course of measles based on
various factors i.e. age, nutritional status, socio-economic status, immunization status, other host factors.
Methods: It is a prospective descriptive study done in pediatric OPD & IPD over one year
Results: The average age of a child with confirmed measles is 21 months & 15.8 months in complicated measles
with a male predisposition. Patients in 2nd degree PEM had a risk of developing complicated measles. There exists
a positive correlation between lack of vaccination and the development of complications due to measles.
Conclusion: Universal implementation of two doses of MMR Vaccine and screening & management of malnutrition
can prevent the severity of complications associated with measles.