Immunizations Work Against Measles: Protect Yourself & Those you Love

In light of the multi-state measles outbreak linked to a California amusement park, public health experts in the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services are encouraging preventive measures and reminding everyone that immunizations are the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against measles.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that, from Jan. 1 to Jan. 30, 2015, 102 people from 14 states were reported as having measles. North Carolina currently has no reported cases of measles in 2015.

Compared to other counties in N.C., Buncombe County has a high rate of children who are not fully immunized. Communities with high rates of people who are not fully immunized are at risk of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. That is why it is important for individuals and families to talk to their doctor to make sure they are fully immunized against measles and other diseases.

Measles is a respiratory disease that is spread through the air by coughing and sneezing. It also can be transmitted through contact with secretions from the nose or mouth of an infected person. Initial symptoms may include fever, runny nose, watery red eyes and cough and are followed by a rash that can spread over the entire body.
Measles can lead to pneumonia and other complications, including swelling of the brain, deafness, mental disability and even death, especially in young children, adults over 20 and people with weakened immune systems. The disease also poses serious risks for pregnant women, including miscarriage and premature birth.

Measles can be prevented by the combination MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine. Public health experts recommend all children receive two doses of MMR vaccine, with the first dose at 12 months of age and a booster at four to six years of age. North Carolina law requires all individuals to be immunized with two doses of MMR vaccine prior to school entry.

Adults born in 1957 or later who have not already been vaccinated should get at least one dose of MMR vaccine. This is especially important for people who will be traveling internationally. According to Interim State Health Director Robin Cummings, M.D., "Measles remains endemic in many countries around the world, which means the importation of measles virus into the United States will continue to occur. Measles is one of the most highly contagious diseases there is and it spreads quickly in children and adults who are not vaccinated."
Protection from some childhood vaccines will wear off as people get older. Older adults are at risk for diseases like shingles and pneumonia. In addition, adults who are around infants should make sure they get a ‘booster shot’ for whooping cough (pertussis).

Individuals and families should contact their doctor or healthcare provider to get up-to-date on their immunizations, including the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.

Buncombe County Health and Human Services Immunization Clinic offers MMR vaccine at the 40 Coxe Avenue location in downtown Asheville. The cost for the MMR is $72. Medicaid, private insurance and self-pay (cash, check, debit or credit card) are accepted. Those with no insurance may qualify for a free vaccine based on eligibility. Individuals can call (828) 250-5096 for more information.

Help keep measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases out of our area! We encourage everyone to get immunized and to be a part of our community shield of protection. By getting immunized, individuals not only protect themselves but also protect vulnerable populations like those with preexisting health conditions, infants who are too young to be immunized and the elderly.

For more information, visit www.buncombecounty.org/immunize.