The Guilford County Division of Public Health advises residents to confirm that they and their family members are up to date on immunizations as measles cases rise nationwide. Once eliminated in the United States in 2000, measles has re-emerged due to declining vaccination rates. Vaccinations are safe, effective, and remain the best way to prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and death from respiratory viral infections and from vaccine-preventable infections like measles.
Measles is a highly preventable disease through the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) recommends that all children and adults aged one year and older stay up to date on MMR vaccination, as two doses provide approximately 97 percent protection. High vaccination levels in the community, called “herd immunity,” help prevent outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations who cannot be vaccinated, including newborns, people undergoing cancer treatment, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
“Measles can spread very quickly among children and adults who are not protected by vaccination,” said Courtney McFadden, Guilford County Public Health Director. “All residents should take the time to ensure that they and their families are fully vaccinated with the MMR vaccine.”
Measles is a respiratory disease that is spread through the air by coughing and sneezing. It can also be transmitted through contact with secretions from the nose or mouth of an infected person. The virus can live for up to two hours in the air where the infected person was present. Symptoms of measles usually begin seven to 14 days after exposure, but can appear up to 21 days after exposure and may include:
- High fever (may spike to more than 104 degrees)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots) two to three days after symptoms begin
- A rash that is red, raised, blotchy; usually starts on face, spreads to trunk, arms and legs three to five days after symptoms begin
With the risk for community spread, parents are encouraged to ensure their children have received all recommended childhood immunizations, including the MMR vaccine. Approximately 90 percent of unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles will become infected. Any resident who believes they may have been exposed to measles or who is experiencing symptoms should remain at home, avoid contact with others, and contact their healthcare provider before seeking care so appropriate precautions can be taken to prevent spreading to others.
North Carolina state law allows local health departments to require isolation or quarantine when it is needed to protect the public from infectious diseases such as measles. These steps are used only when necessary to prevent outbreaks and protect lives, especially in places like schools, childcare centers, and shared living facilities. Isolation and quarantine are public health measures designed to limit the spread of disease and to keep the community safe.
MMR vaccinations are available from local health care providers. Additionally, the Guilford County Division of Public Health offers immunization appointments Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Greensboro (1100 East Wendover Avenue) and High Point (501 East Green Drive) locations. Call 336-641-3245 to schedule an appointment. Please ensure that your, or your child’s, health insurance (including Medicaid) information and immunization records are readily available at the time of your visit. A parent or guardian will need to be present with children during your visit to Greensboro and High Point locations.
Residents may verify their vaccination status by contacting their local health care provider or the North Carolina Immunization Registry at 877-873-6247. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program may receive the vaccine from a provider enrolled in that program. The NCDHHS measles immunity checker tool is available for those who are unsure whether they might need additional protection. To provide the public with updated information, NCDHHS presented a new Measles Cases and Outbreaks Dashboard that is updated twice per week, on Tuesdays and Fridays, with new case and exposure information.
As part of ongoing outreach efforts, NCDHHS also has launched text notifications for potential measles exposures. These text messages will help quickly notify people who may have been near a confirmed measles case and provide timely information on next steps to protect their health and the health of others. Individuals who receive a message may have been present at a location during a specific date and time when exposure could have occurred. Receiving a text message does not mean a person has measles, but it does mean they may have been exposed and should follow the guidance provided. In addition to text, individuals may be contacted by the Guilford County Division of Public Health.