Question

For most people, the measles virus does not cause a serious illness. Symptoms include fever and a rash, but the symptoms are usually gone in about a week. However, for some, the measles virus can be much more serious. How can the measles virus cause a potentially fatal illness?

a) By causing secondary bacterial infections
b) By inducing autoimmune reactions
c) By attacking the nervous system
d) By leading to respiratory failure

Answer 1

Measles can be potentially fatal due to complications like pneumonia and encephalitis, which can cause severe headaches, seizures, and be life-threatening in serious cases.

Step-by-step explanation:

The measles virus can cause potentially fatal illness in several ways. Complications can occur such as pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and secondary infections due to the immune system being compromised. Encephalitis linked to measles can present with severe headaches and seizures, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening. The virus spreads through direct contact with infectious secretions or inhalation of airborne droplets, which can then lead to systemic infection and the characteristic measles rash. Vaccination has significantly reduced the incidence of measles, but it remains a serious threat in unvaccinated populations.