” Unlike today, when anyone who suspects his child has measles will go straight to the pediatrician’s office, then not everyone went to the doctor. They kept their kids as comfortable as possible and hoped for the best.”
Going to the doctor if you suspect measles is an easy way to spread it. Stay home and call the doctor and get instructions on what to do. Measles can be tested with a urine sample which can easily be delivered to the doctor’s office without the possibly infected child in toe. The problem is people are scared of the measles as if it was bubonic plague or ebola. To be clear, it’s not benign, it’s risky, absolutely, but panic will not help. Keep a level head, call the doctor and quarantine the child. They will have high fever, upper respiratory infection (cough, runny nose, possibly ear infection), red eyes, possibly diarrhea and sore throat. 4 days before the rash and four days after they are contagious. Beezras Hashem, they will get through it without complications. The CDC recommends vitamin A supplements to prevent complications, look up how much depending on age. There is nothing for the doctor to do for you other than to tell you to “keep the child comfortable” and keep an eye in case of complications. It’s a virus, there is no medication. Lots of rest, lots of fluids and lots of siyata dishmaya.
If you think you need to go to the hospital, call ahead and let them know so they can wait for you at the door with a mask so you won’t infect anyone on your way in.
Wash your hands and know that the virus can live on surfaces for 2 hours, so wipe your phone down before you leave the house.
May all cholei Yisroel, pro and anti vax, have a refuah sheleima!