MEASLES.

New Zealand Times, Volume LXXII, Issue 4740, 23 August 1902, Page 4 (Supplement)

MEASLES.

Tor tho instruction of young mothers, tho lirst symptoms of measles show themselves by headache anil shivering also by a cold in tho head. Later on, about‘tho third day, perhaps earlier, a few rod dots arc seen about tho face, nook and behind the oars. Measles are infectious during the early stage, therefore ns soon as tho trouble is suspected tho child should bo kept away from his companions. You will find it much better to keep him in bed, and see that tho room is quiet and warm.

It may not bo absolutely necessary for tho doctor to como at first —that is, if you feel capable of undertaking tho nursing of your child —but there may bo complications, and at least one visit should bo paid by a medical man. Prepare sonic nice cooling drinks for your little patient, lemonade being about the most suitable, if homo made; apple water, barley water and other similar simple beverages will bo most welcome to the thirsty little sufferer. Plenty of fresh milk should be given; but this should not bo kept in tho same room, and if any is left in the glass after tho child has'had sufficient, throw it away, and wash the glass at once.

Sometimes, in bad cases of measles, there is a discharge from the ear; when that occurs, tell your doctor at once. Also note if there is a tiresome cough.

As your little ono gets bettor, a cliango of air and scone will greatly benefit him. I need not remind yon that tho room which the child occupied, and also tho clothing worn, will need thorough disinfecting. Anything of little value, old clothing, papers, books, etc, should bo burnt in tho room. Then you must shut tho windows, block up tho chimney, and put a jar or pan in tho middle of tho room with some live coals in it; on tho coals put a layer of sand, and on that either some rook sulphur broken into pieces, or, if you prefer it. some carbolic —the latter is less destructive to furniture or paint. Leave the room as quickly as possible, shutting tho door firmly.