Measles is a highly contagious disease that is spread by direct person-to-person contact as well as through the air. The virus can survive up to two hours in the air. Symptoms typically begin seven to 14 days after exposure but can appear up to 21 days after exposure.
NCDHSS recommends that all unvaccinated individuals age 1 or older get the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to protect themselves and others around them. Most North Carolina measles cases are associated with visits to places with known outbreaks and have affected unvaccinated people.
"Measles is not a disease of the past -- it is still present in our state. Staying up to date on vaccinations is a simple but powerful step we can all take to keep our communities healthy," said Dr. Kelly Kimple, NCDHHS Director of the Division of Public Health.
ALSO SEE | 'Back to normal operations': Duke Energy says conservation worked, but warns of high bills
NCDHHS has launched text notifications for potential measles exposures. These text messages will quickly notify people who could have been near a confirmed measles case and will also provide information on next steps to protect their health and those around them. Along with text messages, individuals could be contacted by their local health department or an NC Public Health Outreach team member via phone call, email or in-person text.
Common measles symptoms include:
- High fever (could spike to more than 104 degrees
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red or watery eyes
- Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth two to three days after symptoms begin.
- A rash that is red and blotchy; usually starting on the face, spreads to trunk, arms, and legs three to five days after symptoms begin.
- Diarrhea, pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and suppression of the immune system.
ALSO SEE | Sen. Mitch McConnell hospitalized after experiencing 'flu-like symptoms'
Stay on top of breaking news stories with the ABC11 News App