Before our walk, Dr. Rita Shah gave an informative talk about Measles and answered questions from the kids and parents in the group.

Measles can be serious. Children younger than 5 years of age and adults older than 20 years of age are more likely to suffer from complications. Common complications are ear infections and diarrhea. Serious complications include pneumonia and encephalitis.

Measles is caused by the measles virus which is spread easily through the air when an infected person sneezes or coughs and someone nearby inhales the infected droplets. Once a child is exposed to and infected with the measles virus, his first symptoms will not appear for 8 to 12 days (the incubation period).

Prior to the appearance of the measles rash, children with measles develop cold-like symptoms, including a cough, runny nose, fever, and inflamed eyes, often called pinkeye (conjunctivitis).

The recent measles outbreaks have many parents concerned. Most of the people who have gotten sick were not vaccinated against measles. This is a stark reminder of the importance of making sure your children are fully vaccinated.