Measles Virus:
The measles virus belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family and is an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus. It is highly contagious and primarily spreads through respiratory droplets. The virus has a characteristic appearance with a spherical envelope and surface glycoprotein spikes. Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease, and vaccination efforts have significantly reduced its global incidence.

Diseases caused by Measles Virus:
Measles, also known as rubeola, manifests with a characteristic maculopapular rash, fever, cough, and conjunctivitis. The infection can lead to severe complications, particularly in young children and immunocompromised individuals. Complications may include pneumonia, encephalitis, and otitis media. Measles is highly contagious, and outbreaks can occur in communities with low vaccination coverage. In severe cases, the disease can be fatal, emphasizing the importance of vaccination for public health.

Detection and Diagnosis of Measles Virus:
Diagnosing measles involves clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Clinical symptoms, including the characteristic rash and fever, aid in diagnosis. Laboratory confirmation is typically achieved through serological tests, such as the ELISA assays available here, that detect measles-specific IgM antibodies or viral RNA. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays can be employed to detect viral RNA in clinical specimens, such as throat swabs or urine. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is crucial for implementing appropriate public health measures, including isolation and contact tracing, to prevent the spread of the virus.