Not a random case... of measles

Key words: Measles, Broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics, Vaccination

A 9-month-old infant, the second child in the family, presented to the emergency room with a persistent fever lasting six days, accompanied by cough, runny nose and stomatitis. Initial examination revealed generalised malaise, irritability, bilateral periorbital oedema, ulcerative lesions on the tonsils, erythematous oropharynx and a maculopapular rash predominantly on the face and trunk. Laboratory tests showed mild thrombocytopenia and elevated inflammatory markers but normal hepatic and renal function. A chest X-ray was unremarkable. The child was admitted for observation and broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics. After 24 hours, measles was suspected due to the clinical presentation, confirmed by serology (positive IgM and negative IgG). Supportive treatment continued, and the child was discharged after five days with improved clinical status. The case highlights an ongoing global increase in measles incidence, attributed to suboptimal vaccination coverage and vaccine hesitancy. It underscores the necessity for timely recognition and isolation of suspected cases and emphasises prevention through vaccination, as incidence rates among unvaccinated children remain high. The experience also calls for heightened awareness in the medical community regarding the resurgence of measles.