Measles epidemic: impact on pediatric oncology patients.

Measles, a preventable disease, is again epidemic in the United States and is a threat to the immunocompromised pediatric oncology patient. In response to this latest epidemic, the Immunization Practices Advisory Committee has revised its recommendations for controlling an outbreak and has changed childhood immunization to a two-dose schedule. Full understanding of measles management is needed to effectively protect the pediatric oncology patient during the current epidemic. This article reviews the epidemiology, clinical presentation and management of measles, including recommendations for vaccinations, exposures, isolation, and patient and family education.