TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Doctors warned the public on Friday (Jan. 10) to watch for three early symptoms of measles: persistent dry cough, symptoms of rhinitis, and conjunctivitis. These symptoms indicate the potential onset of measles, which spreads through airborne droplets or direct contact with infected nasal secretions or saliva, they said.
A measles outbreak has spread across northern, central, and southern Taiwan, prompting medical professionals to issue a public health alert. Ingrid Wu (吳明穎), assistant professor at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou (林口長庚醫院), highlighted the contagious nature of measles, noting that it becomes infectious even before the rash appears.
Wu urged individuals exhibiting any of these symptoms and a fever with a rash to wear a mask and contact health authorities for medical evaluation. Wang Chao-chin (王昭欽), a board member of the Taiwanese Dermatological Association (台灣皮膚科醫學會), advised vigilance for Koplik spots in the mouth, which may accompany widespread facial and body rashes.
Wang noted that those born before 1976 likely have lifelong immunity, while infants under six months benefit from maternal immunity. However, infants aged six months to one year remain vulnerable due to not yet receiving the MMR vaccine. Lin Shun-ku (林舜穀), an attending physician at Taipei City Hospital, Renai Branch (台北市立聯合醫院仁愛院區), recommended protecting the throat and oral mucosa to fend off measles and influenza.
Lin suggested drinking honeysuckle mint tea, which helps clear heat and detoxify, especially during seasonal changes or peak epidemic periods. He also advised maintaining oral moisture, staying hydrated, avoiding pollutants, washing hands frequently, using masks, and avoiding spicy foods to protect the throat.