Measles (Rubeola) IgM ELISA Kit

Measles is an acute, highly contagious viral disease. Although measles is usually considered a childhood disease, it can be contracted at any age. Measles is spread by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected people or, less frequently, by airborne transmission. Measles symptoms generally appear in two stages. In the first stage, the individual may have a runny nose, cough and a slight fever. The second stage begins on the third to seventh day and consists of high fever and red blotchy rash lasting four to seven days. The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads over the entire body. Symptoms usually appear in 10-12 days, although they may occur between 8-13 days after exposure. The presence of IgG antibody to measles virus is indicative of previous exposure or vaccination. In individuals with acute measles, a significant increase in measles IgG antibody level is indicative of recent infection. IgM antibodies to measles virus are often detectable with onset of the rash and typically persist for 4 weeks. At least 80% of patients will be positive for measles IgM at 6 days and 100% at 16 days after onset of symptoms.