Measles Cases Confirmed in Mecklenburg County, Linked to South Carolina Outbreak
Public health officials are investigating two separate measles cases in Mecklenburg County, raising concerns about the spread of the highly contagious virus.
- Two measles cases have been confirmed in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.
- One case is linked to a large outbreak in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
- Health officials urge residents to check their MMR vaccination status.
- Measles was also detected in Mecklenburg County’s wastewater system.
Mecklenburg County Public Health officials are investigating two cases of measles, one in an adult and one in a child. The adult contracted measles while traveling and is currently recovering at home in isolation, according to a news release. Measles, a highly contagious disease, is making a concerning return, and vaccination remains the most effective defense.
Child’s Case Tied to South Carolina Outbreak
The child diagnosed with measles was in contact with another child from Spartanburg, South Carolina, where a significant outbreak involving hundreds of cases is underway, health officials said. The two Mecklenburg County cases are not related to each other, according to a spokesperson for the health department, who declined to release further information to protect patient privacy.
“With measles cases now confirmed in Mecklenburg County, we encourage everyone to get up to date on their MMR vaccine to protect their health and our community,” said Dr. Kimbelry Scott, Mecklenburg County Public Health interim director. “While we have strong vaccine coverage in the county, we continue to see how fast measles can spread with measles cases increasing in the Carolinas. Vaccination is the best tool we have to prevent an outbreak here.”
Growing Concerns About Vaccination Rates
The upstate region of South Carolina, including Spartanburg, has been a hotspot for measles. The disease is now spreading into North Carolina, where vaccination rates among school-aged children are declining. Recent reports indicate that one in six North Carolina children attend schools with a high risk for measles outbreaks.
Health officials have also detected the presence of measles in Mecklenburg County’s wastewater system. While the virus cannot spread through wastewater, its presence indicates that infected individuals are shedding the virus through respiratory droplets, saliva, and stool.
National Measles Cases on the Rise
As of January 14, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 171 new confirmed measles cases nationwide this year. Last year saw a total of 2,242 confirmed cases.
Recognizing Measles Symptoms
Symptoms of measles include fever, runny nose, cough, rash, and red eyes. The Mecklenburg health department notes that approximately 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles will become infected. Around one in five people in the United States who contract measles require hospitalization.
MMR Vaccine Information
Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second between 4 and 6 years of age. One dose of the vaccine is 93% effective at preventing measles, while two doses provide 97% protection. Individuals who have previously received the recommended MMR vaccine do not need a booster. If you are unsure about your vaccination status, consult your healthcare provider.
The MMR vaccine is available through healthcare providers, pharmacies, and at the Mecklenburg County Public Health Immunization Clinic. For more information, email [email protected] or call 704-336-6500.
