What is the etiology of measles?

Measles is caused by the measles virus, which is a member of the Paramyxoviridae family. The virus is highly contagious and is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Once in the body, the virus multiplies in the respiratory tract and can lead to systemic infection, characterized by symptoms such as high fever, cough, and a distinctive rash.