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- CDC warns of rising measles cases
As measles cases increase and another death from the disease was reported, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is urging health care providers to remain vigilant.
Why it matters: The CDC wants all physicians and health professionals to be on the lookout for the highly contagious disease as it spreads.
- As of April 4, there were 607 confirmed measles cases across 22 US jurisdictions, with the largest outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico, accounting for over 90% of reported cases.
Testing: Laboratory confirmation should be pursued for all patients with suspected measles. Collect an NP swab or OP swab for RT-PCR testing and a blood specimen for serology testing. Collecting a urine specimen along with an NP/OP swab may improve sensitivity.
Go deeper: Read the CDC's Health Alert Network advisory issued on March 7 for more detailed information and guidance for the upcoming travel season.