Comprehensive Review of Measles: Latest Outbreak Trends, Clinical Manifestations, and Therapeutic Approaches

Measles continues to pose a major global health challenge despite the availability of safe and effective vaccines. Caused by the measles virus, an RNA virus of the Paramyxoviridae family, it spreads via respiratory droplets and is among the most contagious infectious diseases, with a basic reproduction number (R₀) of 12–18. The disease typically begins with a prodromal phase characterized by fever, cough, coryza, and conjunctivitis, followed by the hallmark maculopapular rash. Complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) significantly contribute to measles-related morbidity and mortality, particularly in young children and immunocompromised individuals. The introduction of the measles-containing vaccine (MCV), often administered as part of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) combination, has drastically reduced global incidence. However, recent resurgences, even in high-income countries, underscore persistent challenges such as vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, and logistical barriers to vaccination. The World Health Organization (WHO) has spearheaded measles elimination programs through mass immunization campaigns, outbreak response efforts, and global health policy initiatives. Nevertheless, measles remains endemic in several regions, especially where healthcare infrastructure is weak, conflict disrupts routine immunization, or public trust in vaccines is low. Emerging research has also drawn attention to measles-induced “immune amnesia,” wherein the virus depletes established immune memory, increasing vulnerability to other infections. Achieving global measles elimination demands a coordinated and sustained approach involving policy enforcement, strengthened immunization systems, effective public health communication, and community engagement. This article underscores the latest updates regarding measles in terms of epidemiology, treatment and management as well as the need for renewed efforts in combating measles to achieve the WHO’s goal of global measles elimination. Key words: Measles; vaccination strategies; treatment; management; eradication