1. Characteristics of the Rubeola Virus
The rubeola virus that causes the common measles is one of the most contagious and transmissible infectious agents known to medicine. While it is relatively rare in developed Western nations, thanks to the widespread accessibility of advanced vaccination techniques, you may still encounter the virus in centers with large immigrant populations or through travel. You may also contract it if you have severely compromised immunity due to a condition like AIDS.
2. Transmission of the Virus
Cases of common measles are caused by infection with the rubeola virus. It is a respiratory infection, meaning it is concentrated in the respiratory tract, mainly in bodily fluids like mucus and saliva. However, you might also catch the virus through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, and if you're pregnant, you can pass the virus to your unborn child if you contract it in the first 20 weeks of your pregnancy.
To avoid catching the virus, you should steer clear of direct contact with the secretions and fluids of an infected person. You should also avoid touching anything the affected person has touched, as the virus can pass from the infected individual's skin to objects she touches, and it will then find its way onto your skin and begin incubating.
3. Avoid Infection During Travel
Vaccines offer the best protection against the rubeola virus, and you should get a booster before you travel to countries where the disease remains widespread. If you have travel planned to a lesser-developed area of the world, make an appointment to see your doctor at least 2 months ahead of your expected date of departure. Vaccines and booster shots take time to reach peak protective effectiveness, and you don't want to leave yourself vulnerable.
If you're an expectant mother, you should think twice about the risks involved with visiting countries where infectious diseases are a problem. Passing the rubeola virus to your unborn child can result in serious, incurable complications.
