Etiology and Virology of Measles: Implications and Potentialities for Global Eradication

Measles remains one of the most contagious viral diseases globally despite the availability of an effective vaccine. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the etiology and virology of measles, emphasizing their implications for eradication. Measles is caused by the Measles virus, a negative-sense RNA virus of the family Paramyxoviridae. Its strict human tropism, antigenic stability, and absence of an animal reservoir make it an ideal candidate for eradication. However, high transmissibility, immune suppression, and gaps in vaccination coverage—particularly in regions such as Nigeria—continue to challenge elimination efforts. This manuscript synthesizes molecular virology, transmission dynamics, and immunopathogenesis, and critically evaluates the biological and programmatic feasibility of measles eradication.