Important measles information for parents:
- Measles Isn’t Just a Rash
- Do You Think Your Child Has Measles?
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), 14 cases of measles have been reported in the state since last December. While there are no reported measles cases in Guilford County, we want to make sure that parents understand the severity of the disease, the symptoms, and what you can do to keep you and your family safe.
Measles is a very contagious disease caused by a virus. A person with measles can easily spread the disease through a cough or sneeze, infecting as many as 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people who come in close contact with them.
Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus. Common symptoms include:
- High fever (may spike to more than 104°F)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red and/or watery eyes
- Rash (breaks out 3-5 days after symptoms begin)
Measles can lead to other, more severe health problems, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death.
What to do if someone in your family has symptoms:
If someone in your family has symptom, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that you keep them away from family members who are well, and keep everyone home to avoid infecting others outside of your home. The CDC also recommends that you call a doctor or hospital to let them know someone in your home may be sick.
When to seek emergency medical attention:
If the person who is sick gets worse quickly, or has any of the following symptoms, take them to hospital emergency department immediately. DO NOT WAIT.
- Trouble breathing (or breathing faster than normal)
- Pain when breathing or coughing
- Dehydration (dry nose and mouth, urinating less, crying without making tears)
- Fever or headache that will not stop
- Confusion, decreased alertness, or severe weakness
- Blue color around the mouth, low energy, or difficulty feeding (for young children)
The Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly recommended to keep you and your family from contracting measles. To schedule a vaccination appointment for a child or adult, contact the Guilford County Health Department at (336) 641-3245 or visit their website.
