Measles cases have been reported in Western North Carolina.

Measles Cases and Outbreaks in North Carolina | Division of Public Health

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About Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger for up to two hours after the person leaves the area. Measles is not just a rash. It can cause serious illness, especially in babies and young children.
 

Measles Fact Sheet: English | Spanish 
 

Symptoms

• High fever (often >104°F)

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Red, watery eyes

• Rash beginning 3–5 days after symptoms start, spreading from face to body
   

Symptoms of measles usually begin 7 to 14 days after exposure, but can appear up to 21 days after exposure.
 

How Serious Can It Be?

• About 1 in 4 people with measles will be hospitalized.

• 1 in 1,000 may develop brain swelling (encephalitis), which can cause permanent damage.

• 1 or 2 in 1,000 may die, even with good medical care.
   

Vaccination 

Protect yourself and your family by being up-to-date with the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine.

• Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles.

• The vaccine is safe and provides lifelong protection for most people.

• Check your vaccination record. Tips to locate your vaccine record. 

• Check Your Immunity (Quiz Tool): You are protected if you were born before 1957, are vaccinated or have lab proof of immunity.

 

If You Have Symptoms of Measles

If you develop symptoms:

• Stay home and limit contact with others.

• Call your health care provider or local health department right away.

• Call ahead before visiting a doctor’s office, urgent care, or emergency room so steps can be taken to prevent exposure to others.