The measles virus contacts and infects skin cells by which method?

• A. Spreading through the bloodstream after initial respiratory infection
• B. Attachment to hair follicles on the skin surface
• C. Direct penetration through intact skin
• D. Infection via insect vectors

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of the measles virus infection: Measles primarily enters the body through the respiratory tract, not directly through the skin or insect vectors.
2. Recall the pathogenesis of measles: After initial infection in the respiratory tract, the virus spreads systemically through the bloodstream, a process known as viremia.
3. Recognize that the virus does not infect skin cells by attaching to hair follicles or penetrating intact skin, as these are not typical routes for measles virus entry.
4. Eliminate options that involve direct skin penetration or insect vectors, since measles is a viral infection transmitted via respiratory droplets and systemic spread.
5. Conclude that the correct method by which measles virus contacts and infects skin cells is by spreading through the bloodstream after the initial respiratory infection.