Measles Keratitis in a Nigerian Child: Experience From a Rural Community

Abstract

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease associated with various systemic and ocular complications, including potentially blinding keratitis. Early recognition and prompt treatment greatly improve visual outcomes. We report the case of a one-year-old child who developed keratitis following a measles infection. Despite timely clinical diagnosis and treatment after presentation, the child healed with a visually significant corneal opacity. This report highlights that measles-related ocular morbidity remains a public health challenge in rural, underserved communities, underscoring the need for strengthened preventive measures and improved access to eye care. This case also underscores the role of harmful traditional practices and incomplete immunisation in worsening outcomes. It illustrates the intersection between infectious disease, cultural beliefs, and health system limitations, and calls for integrated strategies that combine vaccination, maternal education, and community-based eye health programs.