Measles

Key Points Measles is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, cough, conjunctivitis, and maculopapular rash. It is highly transmissible and spreads via respiratory droplets, with a high attack rate among susceptible individuals. Diagnosis involves clinical recognition of symptoms and confirmation through laboratory tests like reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and antibody detection. Management is supportive, with vitamin A supplementation recommended for all children with measles. No specific antiviral treatment is available. Vaccination is the most effective prevention strategy. Herd immunity requires high vaccination coverage. Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) with vaccine or immunoglobulin is recommended for individuals who are not immune after exposure to prevent disease spread.