Measles in the Modern World

A highly contagious virus, once thought to be nearly eradicated, has made a comeback. Measles is affecting even our youngest patients in communities around the country and putting vulnerable populations at risk. Our primary care providers are on the frontlines of this resurgence. It’s crucial they feel prepared to vaccinate patients, educate families and respond effectively.

To discuss the current state of measles, understand its return and discover how we can address it, we are joined by two experts, Sam Dominguez, MD, and Jessica Cataldi, MD. Dr. Dominguez is the Medical Director for the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory at Children’s Hospital Colorado. Drs. Dominguez and Cataldi both specialize in infectious disease and teach at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

This episode was recorded at the end of March 2025, and the first case of measles was reported in Colorado on March 31, 2025. 

Some highlights from this episode include:

• A discussion on the current outbreak of measles, and its impact on our global community
• Steps primary care providers can take to identify and manage suspected cases
• The role of vaccination and how primary care providers can help vaccinate more members of the community
• Opportunities to help patients after exposure

Some resources mentioned in the episode include:

• CDC measles guidance
• American Academy of Pediatrics measles guidance
• Children's Hospital Colorado resources;
  • Contagious Comments
  • Firstline: Measles, Evaluating Risk in Patients Presenting with Fever and Rash
  • Firstline: Measles Vaccination and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis
  • Continuing education - Spotting Measles Before it Spreads
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