The Measles virus is a highly contagious single-stranded RNA virus that is mostly spread via the respiratory system. It may be passed via aerosol droplets from coughs or through contact with infected bodily fluids. It causes measles, a disease characterised by fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a rash. Most patients with uncomplicated measles will recover without antiviral treatment, however, some patients may develop diarrhoea, corneal ulceration, pneumonia or encephalitis. Complications are more likely in adults. In developed countries, most children are immunised against measles by the age of 18 months, as part of the three-part MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.

This product contains a high concentration of virus and viral components. The preparation also contains some cellular material suspended in MEM.

Optimally infected cells are disrupted in culture fluids. The suspension is clarified and concentrated by crossflow ultrafiltration.

The antigen preparation is inactivated using gamma radiation, which primarily damages viral genetic material.

This product has been rendered inactive by standard procedures. However this material should still be handled as infectious and should be disposed of appropriately.