Diagnosing Measles is Challenging

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted a Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity (COCA) webinar on August 17, 2023, focused on eliminating measles in the U.S.

This webinar is essential since measles cases worldwide increased by about 80% during 2022. Globally, measles outbreaks have been reported in various countries this year. In the U.S., there have been 19 measles cases reported in 2023.

During this COCA Call, presenters reviewed the clinical presentation and diagnosis of measles infection, how to report suspected cases to public health agencies, and outlined vaccination recommendations in the U.S.

Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease, says the CDC. Measles vaccines (MMR) are available at health clinics and pharmacies in the U.S.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the intramuscular route of administration for M-M-R®II and ProQuad® vaccines. In addition, the FDA  approved the Priorix vaccine to prevent MMR in individuals one year and older. 

Updated on August 21, 2023, with data regarding measles cases.