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As measles cases resurface, health experts are drawing attention to a lesser-known complication of the highly contagious viral infection: hearing loss. While fever, rash and respiratory symptoms are among the more familiar signs of measles, the infection can also affect the ears and, in rare cases, lead to permanent hearing loss. Dr Jill McClelland, Manager of Audiology Services at Penn State Health in the US, has urged parents to watch for changes in their children’s hearing, speech and responses to sounds, even after they have recovered from the infection.
“Someone not listening very well. Someone’s speech changing? Maybe asking for more volume in toys or TV,” McClelland said, listing some of the warning signs that parents should look out for. She stressed that recognising these changes early can help children receive the right care and support.
How Can Measles Cause Hearing Loss?
Measles is a viral infection that can lead to complications beyond its immediate symptoms. According to McClelland, ear infections are among the possible complications, while a smaller number of patients may experience permanent hearing loss linked to encephalitis, a condition that causes inflammation of the brain.
“One out of ten of those infected with measles will get an ear infection. One out of a thousand will have a permanent hearing loss related to encephalitis, or swelling of the brain that can cause sensorineural hearing loss or permanent hearing loss,” she explained. Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or the nerve pathways that carry sound signals to the brain. Depending on the cause and severity, the condition can be permanent.
McClelland said health professionals are paying close attention to the complications emerging amid the recent resurgence of measles in the US. Speaking about the situation in Pennsylvania, she referred to state health department data indicating that at least five people had experienced permanent hearing loss associated with measles. She also highlighted the need to monitor cases to better understand the effects of the current outbreak.
Although hearing loss is not inevitable after measles, the possibility makes it important for parents to remain alert to changes after the infection.
Warning Signs Of Hearing Loss Parents Should Watch For
Children may not always be able to explain that they are having trouble hearing. This makes it important for parents to notice changes in their behaviour, communication and response to everyday sounds.
McClelland said younger children may become less responsive to sounds or show changes in their speech development.
“Maybe their speech, which has been developing, is starting to slow down a little bit, or it’s not advancing as expected. Those would be some concerns for younger kids,” she said.
Parents should also watch for children who do not respond to their name or sounds as they normally would. A child who appears to be ignoring instructions may not necessarily be doing so deliberately; difficulty hearing should also be considered.
In older children, the signs may be easier to identify. Repeatedly asking others to repeat themselves, turning up the television or radio volume, and saying that they cannot hear properly are all reasons to consider a hearing evaluation.
McClelland advised parents not to ignore such changes, particularly if they appear after a measles infection. “Have it checked out. The earlier it can be addressed, the earlier that we can provide a solution or support,” she said.
When Should Parents Seek Medical Advice?
McClelland recommended contacting a family doctor or audiology clinic once the measles infection is no longer contagious if hearing concerns arise. An audiologist can assess the child’s hearing and determine whether further medical evaluation is needed.
Depending on the findings, the child may need treatment for an ear infection or further assessment for possible permanent hearing loss. McClelland said audiologists would likely work with ear, nose and throat specialists in these cases.
