Measles Virus

The measles virus (MV), also known as Measles morbillivirus (MeV), is a single-stranded, negative-sense, non-segmented RNA virus belonging to the Morbillivirus genus in the Paramyxoviridae family. It is enveloped, which contributes to its sensitivity to environmental conditions and disinfectants.

• Host specificity: Humans are the exclusive natural hosts, with no known animal reservoirs, making eradication biologically feasible.
• Transmission: The virus spreads via respiratory droplets and is highly contagious, often leading to outbreaks in unvaccinated populations.
• Clinical relevance: Measles causes a systemic infection characterized by fever, cough, conjunctivitis, and a distinctive rash. Complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis, and immunosuppression.