Podcast # 424: Hunting for Measles

Measles is highly contagious and successfully infects 90% of those at risk exposed to the virus.

10 day prodrome where patients are asymptomatic.

3 day period of characteristic cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, fever and Koplick spots with a maculopapular rash that moves from head through trunk

Infection risk extends three to four days after the onset of rash but also three to four days prior to onset. Have fun with that.

A potential exposure, say in an emergency department waiting room, needs review of any exposed patient's immunization history to contain spread