In reducing the incidence of Haemophilus influenzae, the vaccine also dramatically reduced an associated deadly meningitis. Active laboratory-based surveillance started, increasing sensitivity. Among the complications of measles are diarrhea, ear infections, croup, pneumonia, encephalitis, brain damage, and death. Severe cases of measles can be treated with Ribavarin, an anti-viral drug, but in most cases, treatment must focus on symptom relief. There is no treatment for the virus itself.
Mumps meningitis usally resolves untreated.
No treatment is available for mumps encephalitis, permanent brain damage, or sterility. Complications include nosebleeds, small hemorrhages in the white of the eye, face swelling, ear infections, small areas of lung collapse with subsequent pneumonia, convulsions, coma, brain damage, possible subsequent learning or behavior problems, and death. Antibiotics may be used to kill the pertussis bacteria in the nose and throat and possibly to reduce the coughing. Brain damage and learning and behavior problems may be permanent. 1975 - 1997 cases are consultant verified.