Measles is a very infectious illness caused by rubeola virus. It
is an endemic disease so it is continually active
in populations and many develop resistance to the virus.
However, when exposures occur in areas where the virus has not
been present, the result can be devastating.
During the last two centuries, it is estimated that
measles has claimed the lives of over 200 million
people.
2015: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and
State Health Departments identified a multi-state outbreak of
measles associated with travel to Disneyland Resort Theme Parks.
Public health departments and healthcare facilities were notified
of the measles outbreak and were provided with guidance.
Measles cases continue to be identified in California in
returning international travelers. Measles is highly contagious.
Please protect patients, visitors, and staff.
Utilization of alternative diagnostic sampling techniques during
an imported measles outbreak; resource includes background,
methods, specimen collection and conclusions.
This resource was adapted from the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention. Epidemiology, Prevention, and Control of
Vaccine-Preventable Diseases. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention.