What happens if 'drip' is given to someone with measles? Could it cause death?

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Measles is an infection caused by a virus that easily spreads from person to person. It commonly affects children.

It may cause fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, a rash or red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis).

Measles is caused by the measles virus.

Measles spreads when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing respiratory droplets into the air. These droplets may be breathed in (inhaled) by another person leading to an infection with measles.

This virus can lead to serious issues, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

There are some people who incorrectly believe that giving “drip” to someone with measles could lead to the death of that person.

What is the treatment for measles?

There is no specific medicine for treating the measles virus.

The treatment involves managing symptoms:

• Rest
• Drink enough fluids to stay hydrated
• Control fever with drugs like paracetamol
• Treating other infections that develop (e.g. pneumonia)

Why do doctors give ‘drip’ to those who have measles?

"Drip" commonly refers to intravenous (IV) fluids or medications that are given through an IV line to help hydrate or administer treatment.

Sometimes when someone is infected with measles, they may be unable to drink fluids, experience a high fever, or have diarrhea, which can lead to severe dehydration.

If not properly treated, this can become life-threatening.

IV fluids or a ‘drip’ are used to treat dehydration and give medications, which prevents the condition from worsening.

So, what causes people to die from measles?

Measles sometimes leads to serious issues or complications like an infection of the lungs (pneumonia), infection and swelling of the brain (encephalitis), or severe dehydration from diarrhea.

It is these complications of measles that often cause death in those affected by the disease.

Receiving ‘drip’ or IV fluids appropriately for measles would not cause death.

Vitamin A can really help lessen the seriousness of measles and reduce related complications. In some cases, a lack of vitamin A can also make the disease more severe.

How do you prevent measles?

Vaccination with the measles vaccine helps to prevent measles.

If someone has not been vaccinated against measles or they are not sure of their vaccination status, its best they avoid contact with anyone who has measles.