Koplik's spots, or Koplik's sign, correspond to small white dots that may appear inside the mouth and that have a reddish halo. These spots usually precede the appearance of the characteristic symptom of measles, which is the appearance of red spots on the skin that do not itch or hurt.
There is no treatment for Koplik stains, since as the measles virus is eliminated from the body, the stains will also disappear naturally. Although the virus is eliminated naturally and the symptoms disappear, it is important that the person remains at rest, drink plenty of fluids and have a healthy diet, because this way the recovery happens faster.
What do Koplik spots mean
The appearance of Koplik spots is indicative of infection by the measles virus and they usually appear about 1 to 2 days before the appearance of the typical red measles spots, which start on the face and behind the ears and then spread throughout the body.. After measles spots appear, Koplik's sign disappears in about 2 days. Therefore, the Koplik's sign can be considered a characteristic symptom of measles.
Koplik's sign corresponds to small white dots, like grains of sand, about 2 to 3 millimeters in diameter, surrounded by a red halo, which appear inside the mouth and do not cause pain or discomfort.
See how to identify other measles signs and symptoms.
How to treat
There is no specific treatment for Koplik spots, as they disappear as measles spots appear. However, it is possible to accelerate and favor the process of eliminating the virus from the body through the intake of plenty of fluids, rest and a balanced and healthy diet, as it favors the immune system and stimulates the elimination of the virus. In addition, children should be evaluated and vitamin A use indicated, because it reduces the risk of mortality and prevents complications.
A measure of great importance to prevent measles and, consequently, the appearance of Koplik stains, is the administration of the measles vaccine. The vaccine is recommended in two doses, the first when the baby is 12 months old and the second at 15 months. The vaccine is also available free of charge for adults in one or two doses depending on age and whether you have already taken a dose of the vaccine. Check out more details of the measles vaccine.
