By: Pediatricians, Mallory Alcala, DO; Paul Linker, MD; and Louis Puppo, MD

Over the past few months, measles outbreaks have been reported in various locations across the United States. In our role as pediatricians, it is important that our community understands the potential severity of this illness and how to best protect themselves and those they love. 

Some people think measles is just a simple rash – but this is far from the truth. Measles is a serious respiratory disease – especially for babies, young children, and other unvaccinated individuals – that is easily spread through coughing and sneezing. In fact, it is the most contagious disease known at this time, given its airborne nature.

Common symptoms include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• A flat, red rash beginning on the face, then spreading down the neck and the rest of the body
• White spots found in the mouth.

Severe cases of measles can cause health complications, including:

• Pneumonia
• Convulsions
• Brain damage
• Even death.

While this extremely contagious virus poses a substantial health risk, the good news is that it is almost entirely preventable through immunization with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This means you can help stop the spread by getting vaccinated.

Notably, 95 out of 100 people who are fully vaccinated will be protected from measles. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended for children, the first to be administered between 12 and 15 months and the second between ages four and six. Adults born after 1957 who have not been vaccinated should also receive one to two doses of the MMR vaccine. 

Each of us has an important responsibility to protect ourselves and one another by staying current with age-appropriate immunizations, including the MMR vaccine, to help make Rutherford County and the surrounding areas safer and healthier for all. By getting vaccinated against measles, you’re not only helping to protect yourself, but you’re also safeguarding others in your family and in our community as well. This is especially important when it comes to protecting those who may be at risk for serious complications but are not able to be vaccinated as they are too young, have a weakened immune system, or have an allergy to the vaccine.

As measles cases continue to rise across the country and in nearby states, our team encourages families to recognize the signs and symptoms and, most importantly, to get vaccinated. It only takes a few seconds to receive a vaccine, but it could save your life, your child’s life, or the life of a loved one. At Rutherford Regional Health System, our pediatric team is ready to serve your family and is currently accepting new patients. Consult with a healthcare provider to ensure your family is up to date on all recommended immunizations, or schedule an appointment. 

For more information about measles, visit www.cdc.gov/measles or contact the Foothills Health District. 

To further inform our community, Dr. Alcala of Rutherford Children’s Care was recently featured on WLOS – Channel 13 News discussing the rise in measles cases and the importance of staying current on immunizations. Watch the full interview here: Doctors Urge Precautions as Measles Spreads in Neighboring South Carolina Counties.