Mecklenburg County urges measles vaccination as nearby SC outbreak grows

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Mecklenburg County health officials are urging parents to make sure their children are vaccinated against measles, as a growing outbreak just across the border in South Carolina is raising concerns.

So far, eight cases of measles have been confirmed in Spartanburg County, less than two hours south of Charlotte, and more than 150 unvaccinated children have been quarantined.

“As our neighbors are dealing with a growing measles outbreak, it’s important for everyone in our community to take steps to protect health and prevent an outbreak here,” said Dr. Raynard Washington, Mecklenburg County Public Health director. “Parents need to make sure their kids are up to date on their vaccines, and healthcare providers, schools, and daycares need to know the signs and symptoms of measles to isolate potential cases early and prevent further spread.”

Mecklenburg County health officials said measles is a highly contagious and serious illness, and the best tool to protect against it — is vaccination.

Why this matters

Health officials said measles spreads very easily, especially among people who aren’t vaccinated. In fact, they said about 90% of unvaccinated people who are exposed to the virus will get sick.

Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash. In serious cases, health officials said measles can lead to hospitalization or even death.

Locally, Mecklenburg County had its first confirmed measles case in years just last year. And across the U.S., more than 1,500 cases and 44 outbreaks have already been reported this year.

What to know moving forward

• Children should get two doses of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine:
  • First dose: Between 12–15 months old
  • Second dose: Between 4–6 years old
• One dose is 93% effective, and two doses are 97% effective at preventing measles
• If a measles case occurs in a school or daycare, unvaccinated children may be required to stay home for 21 days or more to prevent the spread

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