The Resurgence of Measles: A Rash From the Past.

Abstract

Measles, or rubeola, remains a highly contagious infectious disease with a concerning resurgence in the United States. Despite previous control efforts, the number of reported cases continues to rise, surpassing the total for the previous year in just the first quarter of 2024 (CDC, 2024a). Emergency nurse practitioners and other emergency clinicians are likely to encounter patients presenting with concerns of or exposure to measles. However, given the low frequency of cases in the past, many emergency clinicians have likely not previously encountered measles, making identification more challenging. Early recognition and isolation are paramount in containing the spread of this virus and mitigating potential complications. This article aims to provide a review of measles, covering its pathophysiology, clinical presentations, and recommended management strategies for suspected or confirmed cases in emergency care settings.