The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has sent healthcare providers their recommendations for treating measles after being alerted of more than 600 cases since January 1st.
There are currently six outbreaks. According to CDC’s alert, more than 90% of measles cases are in Texas and New Mexico, the majority among unvaccinated children.
Summary of CDC’s recommendations:
· Quarantine confirmed and suspected measles patients.
· Alert the 24-hour Epi On Call contact list instantly and follow guidance provided.
· Collect specimen using “either a nasopharyngeal (NP) swab or throat (OP) swab for reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing, as well as a blood specimen for serology testing. Collecting a urine specimen along with an NP/OP swab may improve sensitivity of testing.
· Provide supportive care.
