Infectious Diseases

Measles (Rubeola)

General Description: Measles is a vaccine-preventable viral infection characterized by fever, upper respiratory tract symptoms, conjunctivitis, and a fine rash; it is more severe in adults than in children. Widespread immunization programs have generally eliminated measles in the U.S., although occasional outbreaks have occurred in unimmunized populations or in those who have only received one dose of vaccine.

Mode of Transmission: Airborne droplet spread from the nose and throat secretions of infected individuals.

Efficiency of Transmission/Attack Rate: Measles is highly infectious in susceptible populations.

Period of Communicability: Generally 4 days before onset of rash to 4 days after onset of rash.

Effect on LEO Fitness for Duty: Measles can cause a severe flu-like illness along with the rash that can interfere with general physical fitness and situational awareness.

LEO-specific Clinical Studies and Reports: None known.