North Charlotte Today

Mecklenburg County Public Health is urging parents to ensure their children are current with vaccinations, particularly the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, as measles cases rise nationally. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 222 measles cases across 12 states in 2025, including outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico. Each outbreak has resulted in one death. Mecklenburg County has not reported any cases this year; however, a case was confirmed last year, marking North Carolina's first since 2018.

Dr. Raynard Washington, Mecklenburg County Public Health director, expressed concern: “It is frustrating to see a disease that was once eliminated in the U.S. start to circulate again in communities across the country.” He emphasized vaccination as the best defense against measles: “I encourage parents to make sure their children are up to date on their vaccines to protect their health and prevent outbreaks in our community.”

Measles is a contagious viral illness with symptoms such as fever, runny nose, cough, rash, and red eyes. Approximately 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles will contract it. In the United States, about one in five people who get measles require hospitalization.

The CDC advises that people maintain up-to-date vaccinations. Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine—first at 12 through 15 months and second at 4 through 6 years of age. One dose is 93% effective against measles; two doses increase effectiveness to 97%.

Those experiencing measles symptoms should contact healthcare providers immediately for guidance before visiting facilities to prevent further spread.

The MMR vaccine is available at healthcare providers and retail pharmacies throughout Mecklenburg County and offered at low or no cost at the Mecklenburg County Public Health Immunization Clinic. Additionally, Public Health’s mobile unit will provide vaccines at CMS schools during spring.