Measles is a highly contagious virus that is on the rise nationally with some states experiencing outbreaks. As of March 7, 2025, Texas is reporting an outbreak with 198 cases, 23 hospitalizations, and one death in a school aged child.
With the increased occurrence of this contagious virus along with other spreading respiratory viruses such as the flu and COVID, Buncombe County Health Officials recommend residents protect themselves by getting vaccinated.
What is Measles?
Measles is a viral respiratory illness with symptoms that typically appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus. Typical symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A rash starts on the face 3 to 5 days after the first symptoms and spreads to other parts of the body.
How Does it Spread?
Measles spreads quickly through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected. Because of its very contagious nature, it is recommended people stay home and contact their medical provider if they suspect they have measles.
How Bad can it Be?
Measles can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5 years of age. Common complications are ear infections and diarrhea. Serious complications include pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and death.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best protection against measles. “We have a vaccine that is 97% effective against measles after two doses,” said Dr. Ellis Matheson, Public Health Director for Buncombe County Health and Human Services. “I urge everyone to check their vaccination or immunity status and to get vaccinated as soon as possible if needed.”
Populations:
- Children: should get two doses, one at 12-15 months and another at 4-6 years of age
- Adults: should get at least one dose. Two doses are recommended if they will be in risk high settings including students at post-high school education institutions and healthcare personnel. There is an exception if you have evidence of immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella.
- International travelers: Everyone aged 6 months and older who will be traveling to any country outside the United States or travelers to an area of the US experiencing a measles outbreak who do not have presumptive evidence of immunity should be vaccinated with measles-containing vaccine at least 2 weeks prior to travel.
People born before 1957 have presumptive evidence of immunity against measles. If you are concerned that you may not have immunity, please consult with your medical provider.
Where to get Vaccinated?
- At your doctor or healthcare provider’s office.
- At a pharmacy (check for availability).
- Buncombe County Immunization Clinic: Call?(828) 250-5096?and make an appointment or walk in on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 8-11:30 a.m. and on Tuesday and Thursday between 1-4:30 p.m.
- Uninsured children can be vaccinated at low or no cost through the?Vaccines for Children?program, which offers free vaccines to children through 19 years of age.
Heads Up!
Kindergarteners, seventh graders, and 12th graders are required to have certain vaccines to attend school or childcare facilities in North Carolina, this includes the MMR vaccine. This is a great time to go get back-to-school vaccines to beat the rush this summer. Click here to check vaccine requirements before you head to your next vaccine appointment.