MEASLES
the Science and Technology section of the UPSC CSE exam.
For Prelims:
What is Measles?
For Mains:
GS 3: Science and Technology
Global Measles Outbreak and Causes?
Solutions to Combat Measles?
Why in the news:
The recent surge in measles cases and associated fatalities in the capital can be attributed to a
combination of factors, including the underreporting of cases and the impact of COVID-19 lockdown
measures over the past few years.
What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads through respiratory
droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes.
Measles can lead to severe illness, complications, and fatalities. While it can affect anyone, it is
most common in children.
The virus initially infects the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body.
Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash all over the body.
Measles is associated with secondary infections such as pneumonia and diarrhoea.
Global Measles Outbreak and Causes:
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified a worldwide measles outbreak.
Lack of vaccination is recognized as the primary cause of this outbreak.
In 2021, nearly 40 million children missed a measles vaccine dose due to COVID-19-related
challenges.
A significant decline in vaccination rates in recent years has left many children vulnerable to
the virus.
Solutions to Combat Measles:
Increased Vaccination Coverage
A crucial solution is to ensure proper vaccination coverage for at-risk populations.
Boosting vaccination rates is essential to control the spread of measles.
Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)
The additional dose of Measles and Rubella vaccine is vital for UIP purposes.
This special dose plays a critical role in achieving widespread immunization.
Vitamin A Supplements
o Administering two doses of vitamin A supplements, given 24 hours apart, is essential for
individuals with measles.
o This helps restore low vitamin A levels, even in well-nourished children, preventing eye
damage, blindness, and reducing measles-related deaths.
Source:https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/from-6-to-543-
what-is-behind-surge-in-reported-measles-cases-in-capital-8960959/
Q.1 Consider the following statements regarding measles:
1. A bacterial infection causes measles.
2. Vitamin A supplements are recommended as a treatment for measles.
3. Measles can lead to secondary infections like pneumonia and diarrhoea.
How many of the above statement/s is/are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
ANSWER: B
Q.2 What is the primary mode of transmission of the measles?
(a) Measles primarily spreads through contaminated food and water.
(b) Measles primarily spreads through respiratory droplets from an infected person
(c) Measles primarily spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact.
(d) Measles primarily spreads through insect vectors
ANSWER: B
Q.3 Discuss the significance of a robust and inclusive vaccination program in public health.
Provide insights into the challenges of implementing vaccination programs and suggest
strategies to overcome them.
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