How to Clean Following Measles Exposure

It is advised to immediately and thoroughly clean the affected areas following a measles exposure. 

Measles transmission:

  • Measles is highly contagious and can spread through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
  • The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after the infected person has left the area.
  • The virus can also survive on surfaces for up to two hours.

Clean all surfaces: 

Using an approved low-level disinfectant that is effective against the measles virus, clean all surfaces, with special attention to high-touch areas:

  • Desks
  • Doorknobs
  • Light switches
  • Shared equipment
  • Other measures:
  • Promote air circulation  

Ensure frequent cleaning of high-touch areas throughout the day.

Reference: Public Health Ontario, 2024. Measles: Information for Health Care Providers.

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