What is a common complication associated with measles infections?

Measles is associated with several complications, and encephalitis is one of the most serious. It occurs in approximately 1 in 1,000 cases of measles infection, typically within a week or two following the rash. This complication involves inflammation of the brain and can lead to irreversible damage, including neurological deficits and seizures.

In addition to encephalitis, measles can lead to other complications such as pneumonia and otitis media, which are more common but generally less severe than encephalitis. While dehydration can occur as a complication from the vomiting or diarrhea associated with measles, it is not specific to measles and can arise from many other infections. Myocarditis, while possible, is a much rarer complication of measles. Chronic fatigue syndrome is not directly linked to measles infections and is more often associated with other conditions.

Thus, the association of measles with encephalitis underscores the importance of vaccination and prompt medical attention in the event of infection, making encephalitis the correct response when considering common complications linked to measles.