Measles Virus
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the measles virus (MeV). The disease primarily affects children, and unvaccinated individuals, causing a self-limiting febrile illness with a characteristic maculopapular rash. Clinical complications can occur as a result of MeV infection in pregnant women, immunosuppressed individuals, young infants and cases where malnutrition is a problem. Since the 1960’s, the introduction of an effective vaccine and a widespread vaccination program has significantly reduced cases of measles. However, measles is still endemic in countries where vaccination coverage is poor.
Measles Virus Background
Measles virus (MeV) is a single stranded negative-sense RNA virus, which belongs to the Morbillivirus genus of the family Paramyxoviridae.
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the measles virus. It is a globally widespread disease that affects children but can also cause disease in unvaccinated adults. Humans are the only known host of measles virus and infection is spread from person-to-person via respiratory aerosol droplets, nasal secretions or through direct contact with infected individuals.
Measles virus infection causes a febrile disease with a characteristic maculopapular rash that occurs 3-5 days after the onset of fever. Other non-specific symptoms include a cough, runny nose and conjunctivitis. In addition, MeV targets cells of the immune system and lymphoid tissues causing transient immunosuppression that can last several months or years.
The disease is typically self-limiting but can cause complications in pregnant women, young infants, immunocompromised individuals, and in cases where severe malnutrition is a factor. Clinical complications include encephalitis, blindness, diarrhoea, dehydration and pneumonia.
Since the introduction of a safe and effective vaccine in the 1960’s, global cases of Measles have been in decline. However, measles is still endemic in countries where vaccination coverage is inconsistent and is still a major cause of morbidity and mortality in these countries (WHO).
References
World Health Organization: Immunization, vaccines and biological; Measles
Measles Virus Antigens
We offer a Measles virus lysate which has been manufactured to provide a consistent source of native antigen. This material has been produced by culturing Measles virus in the Vero cell line and is suitable for use in a broad range of applications including immunoassay research and development.
Measles Virus Antibodies
We offer four Measles virus antibodies which are suitable for ELISA and IFA. They specific for Measles virus and show no cross-reactivity with Mumps virus, RSV and Parainfluenza viruses 1, 2 and 3.
Measles Virus Immunoassays
We offer ELISA assays for the detection of antibody response (IgG and IgM) to Measles virus, including an IgG avidity assay to differentiate between acute and past infection. These assays are suitable for use in laboratory research and vaccine development.
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