Measles infections and symptoms pose far more longterm risks than most realize

Measles is so contagious that even one case is considered an outbreak. The resurgence around the world raises the risk of more serious complications and deaths.

Erica Finkelstein-Parker planned her daughter’s 8th birthday party with love.

Because Emmalee adored airplanes, Finkelstein-Parker chose the theme “Flying High with Emmalee.” Finkelstein-Parker filled nearly two dozen brightly colored goody bags for Emmalee’s friends — one for every child in her class, so no one would feel left out.

Months later, the treat bags remained unopened in Finkelstein-Parker’s bedroom, reminders of a birthday party that was never held.

Emmalee, who developed a rare complication of measles that can strike years after infection, spent her 8th birthday in hospice care at her family’s home. Her parents adopted Emmalee from an orphanage in India when she was 2 ½ years old. The orphanage staff didn’t tell them she had been infected with measles.

Emmalee Madeline Snehal Parker. Emmalee was otherwise healthy when she developed a devastating complication after apparently recovering from measles.Erica Finkelstein-Parker“There are some things that a parent should never have to do,” said Finkelstein-Parker, of Littlestown, Pennsylvania. “I had to call the birthday venue and explain that we were canceling the party because our daughter was dying.”

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/kids-health/measles-infection-symptoms-longterm-risks-rcna138583

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