4.2.2  Mode of transmission of measles

Figure 4.1  Transmission of measles by airborne droplets occurs easily in schools.(Photo: Ali Wyllie)

Measles is spread through contact with the nose and throat secretions of infected people, and in airborne droplets released when an infected person sneezes or coughs. A person with measles can infect others for several days before and after he or she develops symptoms. The disease spreads easily in areas where infants and children gather, for example in health centres, homes and schools (Figure 4.1).