02.02.2015

Did Your Patient with a Rash Attend the Super Bowl?

The CDC has put out a nationwide health advisory warning clinicians to be aware of the multi-state measles outbreak, which between December 2014-January 2015, has resulted in more than 50 people in six states reported to have measles. Most cases were tracked to an outbreak at Disneyland in California.

Of greater concern to Massachusetts are the seven cases in Maricopa and Pinal counties, Arizona. The Super Bowl is taking place in Maricopa County and many people from New England are on the ground there attending the game. The incubation period for measles ranges from 7 to 21 days after exposure to onset of fever; rash usually appears about 14 days after exposure.

The CDC and Massachusetts DPH are urging healthcare professionals to consider measles when evaluating patients with febrile rash. Clinicians are encouraged to ask about a patient's recent international and domestic travel history, make sure patients’ vaccinations are up to date, and promptly isolate those suspected of having measles.

Report measles immediately to local health departments and to DPH at 617-983-6800.  Cases diagnosed in Boston should be reported to the Boston Public Health Commission at 617-534-5611.

For more information, including guidelines for patient evaluation, diagnosis and management, visit: http://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/.