Cause 9: Secondary Complications
While the characteristic red rash is the most visible symptom of measles, the disease can lead to severe secondary complications. These complications can sometimes be more dangerous than the initial infection itself.
Ear infections and diarrhea are among the most common complications. While these might sound mild, they can be particularly severe in young children and can lead to further issues like dehydration or hearing loss.
In more grave cases, measles can lead to pneumonia, which is one of the primary causes of death from measles in young children. Additionally, a rare but fatal disease of the central nervous system, known as subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), can also develop several years after a person has recovered from measles.
Certain groups, like young children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems, are more susceptible to these complications. This further emphasizes the need for widespread vaccination to protect these vulnerable groups. The threat of secondary complications is not to be taken lightly. With a safe and effective vaccine available, the risks associated with measles and its subsequent complications are entirely preventable. (9)
