Clinical progress note: Measles

Many medical providers in the United States have never seen a case of measles. This situation will likely change if decreases in childhood vaccination rates and increases in multi-state measles outbreaks continue. Measles can lead to hospitalization and severe disease, especially for high-risk groups including young children and people who are pregnant or immunocompromised. In-hospital transmission of measles can occur prior to diagnosis, as patients are infectious for approximately 4 days prior to the onset of rash. Review of the diagnosis and management of measles is essential for the hospitalist to ensure timely responses to this highly contagious virus.