Measles in Pregnancy: Clinical Considerations and Challenges

Measles is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by the measles virus. Recent declines in population-level immunity and outbreaks linked to imported cases have led to the highest U.S. incidence of measles since its elimination in 2000. Measles infection during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of pneumonia, need for respiratory support and mortality, prematurity, and stillbirth. Although perinatal transmission is rare, congenital measles is linked to higher infant mortality. No licensed antiviral therapies or curative treatments exist, making prevention critical. Measles-containing vaccines are safe and 97% effective in preventing infection when two doses are administered. Measles vaccination is contraindicated during pregnancy; obstetricians and gynecologists should strongly recommend vaccination to all nonpregnant susceptible patients.