Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the Measles morbillivirus

Aetiology

• Measles is caused by the Measles morbillivirus, which is a single-stranded, enveloped RNA virus
• The virus is transmitted by respiratory droplets or by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected individuals

Clinical features

Symptoms usually develop 10-14 days post-exposure and last for 7-10 days:

• High fever above 40 degrees Celsius
• Coryzal symptoms
• Conjunctivitis
• A rash appearing 2-5 days after onset of symptoms

• Koplik spots: small grey discolourations of the mucosal membranes in the mouth, appearing 1-3 days after symptoms begin during the prodrome phase of infection
  • These are pathognomonic for measles

Investigations

• 1st: measles-specific IgM and IgG serology (ELISA), most sensitive 3-14 days after onset of the rash
• 2nd: measles RNA detection by PCR, best for swabs taken 1-3 days after rash onset

Management

Management of measles involves:

1. Supportive care, usually involving antipyretics
2. Vitamin A administration for all children under 2 years