Objective:To compare nucleic acid test and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in the detection of measles, so as to provide scientific basis for the selection of detection method , diagnosing and controlling the disease as soon as possible.Method:IgM antibody to measles virus was detected by ELISA in 504 cases of suspected measles in Xi’an from 2014 to 2018.Measles viral RNA from throat swab specimens was detected by real-time RT-PCR.Result:Among the 504 suspected cases, the laboratory tests confirmed 133 positive cases, and the total positive rate was 26.39%; RT-PCR detected measles virus RNA in 90 cases, and the positive rate was 17.86%; ELISA detected 124 cases of measles virus IgM antibody, and the positive rate was 24.60%.The difference between the two method was statistically significant ( χ2=6.858, P=0.009). Within 3 days after rash, the positive rate of ELISA was significantly higher than that of RT-PCR, and the difference was statistically significant ( χ2=4.596, P<0.05). Conclusion:ELISA and RT-PCR should be used together for rapid diagnosis of measles at early stages.