For Physicians and Healthcare Facilities

Healthcare providers play a critical role in identifying suspected measles cases, preventing transmission, and encouraging vaccination. Outbreaks across the United States highlight the importance of maintaining preparedness.

Healthcare providers should:

• Review measles signs, symptoms, and transmission.
• Ensure staff understand screening and infection control procedures.
• Verify evidence of measles immunity among healthcare personnel.
• Stay up to date with New York State Department of Health guidance and health advisories.
• Encourage patients to stay current on recommended MMR vaccination.

Do not allow patients with suspected measles to remain in waiting rooms or other common areas.

Vaccination remains the best protection against measles.

The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is:

• 93% effective after one dose
• 97% effective after two doses

Healthcare providers should review immunization records and recommend vaccination according to current CDC and New York State immunization schedules. Individuals born after 1956 who lack evidence of immunity should be evaluated for vaccination unless contraindicated. 

MMR vaccine contains a live, weakened virus, MMR vaccine should not be given during pregnancy or to people who are immunocompromised due to a health condition or medication.

Consider measles in patients with:

• Fever (101°F / 38.3°C or higher)
• Generalized maculopapular rash
• Cough
• Coryza (runny nose)
• Conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes)

Suspicion should be higher for patients who:

• Are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated
• Have recently traveled internationally or to areas experiencing measles outbreaks
• Have had known exposure to a confirmed or suspected measles case

If measles is suspected:

• Place the patient in an airborne infection isolation room (AIIR), if available, or isolate immediately.
• Do not allow the patient to remain in common waiting areas.
• If referring the patient to another facility, notify the receiving facility before arrival so appropriate infection prevention measures can be implemented.

Call your local health department when considering measles testing. They can advise on the best options for specimen collection and testing. If a suspected measles case is directed to a hospital or medical facility, NOTIFY THEM so that appropriate infection control precautions can be implemented upon arrival. Immediately report patients with suspected measles to the Local Health Department (LHD) where the patient resides. Chautauqua County residents should be reported to the Chautauqua County Health Department at (716) 753-4491.

Providers can order free measles test kits from NYSDOH Wadsworth Center: (518) 474-4175. Test kits include swab outfit with viral transport media (VTM).

Individuals without evidence of immunity who have been exposed to measles may be eligible for post-exposure prophylaxis.

Depending on timing and individual circumstances, PEP may include:

• MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure
• Immune globulin (IG) within 6 days of exposure

Consult the Chautauqua County Health Department for recommendations on post-exposure management.

Exposed persons without evidence of measles immunity should be advised to remain home for 21 days following their last exposure, or until their measles immunity status is confirmed.

• CDC Measles Information for Healthcare Professionals
• New York State Department of Health Measles Information
• CDC Immunization Schedule
• Chautauqua County Health Department Immunization Program