A 3yearold child whose immunizations are uptodate has been exposed to
measles because of a localized outbreak among unvaccinated children. The parent reports that contact with infected children occurred within the last 2 days at a birthday party. What is the best course of action?

Question

A 3­year­old child whose immunizations are up­to­date has been exposed to
measles because of a localized outbreak among unvaccinated children. The parent reports that contact with infected children occurred within the last 2 days at a birthday party. What is the best course of action?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best course of action is to administer the MMR vaccine to help prevent disease. While the child's immunizations are up-to-date, the vaccine is not 100% effective and may not have provided full immunity. Administering the vaccine after exposure can also potentially reduce the severity of the illness if the child does develop measles. Antiviral medications and immune globulin are not effective treatments for measles. Reassuring the parent is not appropriate as measles is a serious and potentially life-threatening illness.

A 3­year­old Child Whose Immunizations Are Up­to­date Has Been Exposed

A 3yearold Child Whose Immunizations Are Uptodate Has Been Exposed