Measles complicated by encephalitis

**Definition:** A disease caused by an infection with Morbillivirus that is complicated by an infection of the brain. This disease is characterised by symptoms of measles as well as inflammation of the brain. This disease may also present with fever, headache, poor appetite, vomiting, confusion, lethargy, or photophobia. Transmission is by haematogenous spread to the brain after inhalation of infected respiratory secretions, by airborne transmission, or by direct contact. Confirmation is by detection of Morbillivirus RNA or measles-specific IgM antibodies.