فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Measles, an ancient viral disease, remains one of the most contagious and serious infections, particularly in communities with low vaccination coverage or poor nutrition. While often associated with children, measles can affect individuals of all ages who have not been vaccinated or previously exposed. The virus spreads easily through contact with nasal or throat secretions or by inhaling airborne droplets from a sneeze or cough of an infected person.
Upon entering the body, the virus multiplies in the epithelial cells of the upper respiratory tract, spreads to lymph nodes, and then enters the bloodstream, eventually targeting various systems, including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In the gut, the virus invades intestinal cells by binding to specific receptors on epithelial linings, causing direct destruction of these protective layers. This results in the leakage of harmful molecules into the bloodstream, triggers inflammatory responses through cytokine release, and disrupts gut motility while compromising the mucosal barrier.
The virus inflames the stomach lining, a condition exacerbated by secondary bacterial infections like Helicobacter pylori. It damages intestinal villi, impairing the absorption of fats, sugars, and proteins, as well as disrupting water reabsorption. The liver is also affected, with increased enzyme levels and diminished production of proteins like albumin. Additionally, the pancreas suffers from inflammation, leading to sugar metabolism issues and reduced secretion of enzymes vital for digesting carbohydrates and proteins.
Measles weakens gut immunity by impairing lymph nodes, decreasing antibody production, and increasing susceptibility to infections. It also disrupts gut microbiota, reducing beneficial bacteria essential for digestion, and leads to secondary infections. Bile secretion diminishes, further complicating fat digestion, as undigested fats appear in stool.
The disease compromises vitamin and mineral absorption. Vitamin A deficiency weakens immunity and heightens ulcer risks, while vitamin D deficiency impacts bone health and immunity. Mineral losses, such as iron, zinc, and magnesium, result in anemia, slow tissue healing, and increased gut inflammation. Protein leakage through damaged gut walls causes edema, muscle weakness, electrolyte imbalances, and dehydration.
Common GI symptoms include severe diarrhea, leading to dehydration and electrolyte loss; nausea and vomiting due to stomach lining inflammation; and abdominal pain from mucosal irritation and intestinal cramping. Complications range from extreme dehydration and malnutrition to secondary infections, ulcerative colitis, bowel obstruction, and long-term digestive disorders like malabsorption syndrome.
Treatment focuses on symptom control, including fluid replacement via oral and intravenous solutions, fever reducers, antiemetic medications, and secondary infection management with antibiotics or antiparasitics. Nutritional support with calorie- and protein-rich supplements is crucial, along with addressing complications like dehydration and malabsorption.
Prevention remains the best approach, achieved through immunization under national vaccination programs, which provide safe and free vaccines. By ensuring widespread vaccination, the devastating effects of measles can be avoided.
Dr. Najat Khalil
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Specialist
Mohammed V Hospital, Sefrou
source : fesnews media
